Syrian army, terrorists clash ahead of Geneva peace talks

Heavy clashes have continued between the Syrian government forces and the Takfiri terrorists near the capital Damascus and north of Hama ahead of the UN-led peace talks, which are about to begin in Geneva.

The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Thursday the clashes between the Syrian forces and the militants around the industrial zone in Jobar district in the northeastern suburbs of Damascus have intensified after midnight.

Jobar separates Eastern Ghouta, which holds large concentrations of Takfiri terrorists, from Damascus.

A military media unit run by the Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement, whose fighters are helping the Syrian army, also reported fighting early on Thursday in the district as well as a heavy bombardment against terrorist positions and movements in the area.

Militants have been trying for years to break into the heart of Damascus, but they have failed to do so amid stiff resistance from government forces.

The clashes are taking place despite a truce which has been in place across Syria since last December. The ceasefire does not include the Takfiri terrorists of Jabhat Fateh al-Sham and Daesh.

The fighting comes as Syrian government and opposition delegations are set to attend a new round of peace talks in Geneva, Switzerland, later in the day.

SS