The soldiers, supported by Russian advisers, began combing the desert. The maneuvers were anticipated by intense raids by Moscow fighters on IS targets.
Pro-Iran militias and soldiers reopen old desert bases to approach IS safely. The latest is in Palmyra. Meanwhile, Russia keeps enemies busy with raids.
The strategy, however, has so far proved ineffective. In 2021 there were 455 strikes on IS, but only 34 jihadists killed. In addition, ambushes against the SAA continue.
The SAA has two operations ongoing. The first, in its start up phase, is in eastern Ghouta. The second has just begun in the Hamad desert, against the Islamic State.