ISIL's capture of Palmyra in May 2015 expanded the group's control to at least 50% of Syrian territory and threatened a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Key Facts
- Operation dates
- May 13–26, 2015
- ISIL control of Syria after
- At least 50%
- UNESCO designation year
- 1980
- Governorate
- Homs Governorate, Syria
- Comparison
- Largest ISIL offensive in Syria since 2014 Eastern Syria offensive
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
The Islamic State sought to expand its territorial control in Syria by targeting the government-held Tadmur District of Homs Governorate. Palmyra's strategic location in the Syrian desert and the relative weakness of defending Syrian government forces made it a prime target for ISIL's expansionist campaign during the Syrian Civil War.
From May 13 to 26, 2015, the Islamic State launched a major offensive against the Tadmur District, capturing the modern city of Palmyra and its surrounding areas. The operation was the largest ISIL offensive conducted in Syria since the 2014 Eastern Syria offensive, overwhelming Syrian government defenses in the region.
ISIL's successful capture of Palmyra raised ISIL's total territorial control of Syria to at least 50%. The takeover also placed the ancient ruins of Palmyra—a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980—under ISIL control, raising international alarm over the potential destruction of the historically significant monuments.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Side B
1 belligerent