Syrian troops have regained most of the city of Palmyra from ISIS.
Palmyra fell under the control of ISIS last May. The capture was a strategic blow to the Syrian regime, as it gave ISIS better access to the country's capital, as well as a large military base within the city.
Palmyra's citizens suffered summary killings under ISIS' rule. But the terrorist group was also able to use the death of civilians caused by Syrian airstrikes as a political tool to shift anger toward the regime.
The ancient city used to be a major tourist attraction, but after capturing Palmyra, ISIS destroyed some of the city's most beloved monuments. Al Jazeera reports it's unknown how many artifacts remain intact.
And although Russian President Vladimir Putin announced earlier this month he'd scale back his use of airstrikes, the city was recaptured with the help of Russia's air force.
Syria's military now has the chance to push east toward ISIS strongholds like Deir al-Zor and Raqqa.
