IS launches Syria offensive, captures previously rebel-held villages

Syrian activists say Islamic State (IS) has launched a major offensive along the Turkish border, seizing two villages near the border town of al-Rai captured by Western-backed rebels two days ago.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which relies on activists inside the country, says IS militants seized Sheikh Reeh and al-Bal Sunday.

The activist-run Azaz Media Center, based in a northern town of the same name, says the extremists exploded seven bombs around Marea and other villages and towns, calling it the fiercest ISIS offensive in a year.

The IS-linked Aamaq News Agency claims the capture of the two villages and says a suicide operation targeted rebel fighters in opposition-held Kafr Shousha.

Two weeks ago IS was dealt a significant blow when the Syrian government and allied forces recaptured the ancient city of Palmyra from IS fighters who had held it since last May.

The opposition further gained ground when the Free Syrian Army captured Al Rai on Friday which was to be a launching pad for future operations against IS in the east and south.