The noose is tightening round the so called Islamic State fighters. That’s how some analysts interpret the fact the Syrian army has retaken the city of Palmyra.

For the jihadists it is the biggest loss since defeat at Kobani in January 2015 and shows they have lost some momentum. For the Assad regime it is a psychological and strategic victory. It allows him to regain control of the Syrian desert and move towards the border with Iraq.

Now Palmyra will become a central base to broaden operations against ISIL strongholds in Raqqa to the north and Deir Ezzor in the east, the army said in statement.

The support of the Russians and in particular the airstrikes on the jihadists positions since last September and the Hezbollah fighters and Iranian army have been key in putting ISIL on the defensive.

The regime grabbed Slama the stronghold of al-Nusra in Latakia on January 12 this year before taking Rabia which was the last rebel held bastion in the province. Then the Assad regime