Battle of al-Qaryatayn (2015)

The Battle of al-Qaryatayn (2015) was a military engagement during the Syrian Civil War, fought between the Syrian Armed Forces and its allies against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The battle resulted in ISIS capturing the town of al-Qaryatayn in Homs Governorate, Syria, on August 5, 2015.

Al-Qaryatayn held strategic importance due to its location between Palmyra and the Qalamoun Mountains, linking ISIS-controlled territory in the east with areas closer to Damascus. ISIS's capture of the town allowed them to threaten the Syrian government's supply lines and potentially launch attacks towards the capital.

Prior to the ISIS offensive, al-Qaryatayn had a mixed population of Sunni Muslims and Christians, as well as a significant number of displaced persons. ISIS imposed its strict interpretation of Islamic law, destroyed religious sites (including a historic Syriac Catholic monastery, Mar Elian), and subjected the population to severe restrictions. There were reports of abductions and killings of civilians who were accused of collaborating with the Syrian government or of violating ISIS rules.

The Syrian Army, supported by Hezbollah and pro-government militias, launched a counter-offensive to retake al-Qaryatayn. After intense fighting, the Syrian Army successfully recaptured the town on April 3, 2016. Following the recapture, reports emerged detailing the extent of the damage inflicted on the town's infrastructure and the accounts of atrocities committed by ISIS during its occupation. The liberation of al-Qaryatayn was considered a strategic victory for the Syrian government, helping to secure the road between Damascus and Homs.