Palmyra object of new offensive?

Syrian government war planes have launched one of the heaviest bombardments yet on the ISIL-held city of Palmyra. About 25 air strikes killed at least 12 militants, but also at least 14 civilians, the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. Syrian military sources quoted by Reuters have said Syria is using new types of very accurate weapons supplied by Russia. ISIL are not going to be giving up the strategic city without a fight, but let us hope that they are driven out before they do too much more damage to the ancient ruins and harm the local population in their hands.

Vignette: Boom