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Syrian forces --backed by Russian warplanes-- say they're on the outskirts of Palmyra in an attempt to retake control of the ancient city, which is held by the group calling itself Islamic State. Freelance journalist Alaa Ebrahim has been describing the military offensive from the outskirts of Palmyra: (Caption: Syrian army units and local militias advancing further into the vicinity of the ancient city of Palmyra. Credit: EPA/SANA)