Syrian army makes rapid advances as SDF braces for Raqqa attack

Syria’s military says it has captured the strategic town of Tabqa from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) during its lightning advance towards the key city of Raqqa in the north. Heavy clashes are reported in areas east of Deir Az Zor as the military says its forces are in full control of Deir Hafer, have captured the Jarrah airbase to the east, and are in the process of clearing land mines.