The Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham (ISIS) has destroyed another historical site inside the ancient city of Palmyra (Tadmur) on Sunday, marking the first time since August that they have targeted a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
According to reports from activists inside of Palmyra, the terrorist group destroyed the “Arch of Victory” entrance located in the Old Quarter of the ancient city, demolishing this historical site with a bulldozer before they allegedly took photos of the destruction.
The terrorist group likely destroyed this UNESCO World Heritage Site in response to the military escalation from the Russia Federation, who has recently launched a number of airstrikes above ISIS’ positions all around the country.
The Syrian Armed Forces have attempted to recapture this ancient city in the Homs Governorate’s eastern countryside; however, they have been unsuccessful thus far, despite recapturing large swathes of territory from the terrorist group in the last three months.
In addition to the destruction of Palmyra’s numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ISIS has targeted historical sites inside the ancient Assyrian city of Al-Quraytayn, which is also located in Homs’ southeastern countryside.
The UNESCO World Heritage committee has repeatedly condemned these actions by ISIS; unfortunately, there has been no way to officially punish this terrorist group for their actions.