The so-called "Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham" (ISIS) launched a massive offensive in the vast desert landscape of northeast Homs today, targeting the territory located 10km north of the ancient city of Palmyra (Tadmur).

Axar.az informs, not long after seizing the key crossroad town of Huwaysis near the Al-Sha'er Gas Fields, the Islamic State forces infiltrated the Syrian Arab Army's (SAA) at the Jazal Mountains, capturing the village of Jazal after a short battle this afternoon.

In addition to capturing Jazal village, the Islamic State forces also seized its corresponding oil fields, which were originally under the Syrian Arab Army's control for over a year. Southwest of Palmyra, ISIS has also made a significant advance, capturing several checkpoints just outside the ancient city's gates.

Accoridng to a military source at the T-4 Airport, the Islamic State has captured large quantities of ammunition and weapons, while also advancing to the Mahr Oil Fields near Huwaysis.