Syrian army slays many al-Nusra militants

The Syrian army has killed a large number of foreign-backed militants during clashes in Hama province, a military source says.

The clashes occurred in several flashpoints, including Wadi al-Jouz and Masha’a in Hama province, SANA news agency reported on Wednesday.

The militants who were slain during the battle were from the foreign-backed terrorist group Jabhat al-Nusra (Victory Front).

Syrian troops also destroyed the hideouts belonging to the terrorist group in Tal Hawwash, Kafr Nabboudeh and Kesabieh villages in the countryside of Hama.

The source further said that the army captured many other militants, adding that a significant quantity of weapons, ammunition and medical equipment were confiscated.

Meanwhile on Tuesday, Syrian troops killed a number of militants during intense clashes at Misraba junction in the city of Douma, located about 10 kilometers (six miles) northeast of Damascus.

Terrorist hideouts were also raided by the Syrian forces in the suburb of Ghouta.

In addition, Syrian troops stormed a terrorist hideout in the al-Ibb Farms area, and shot dead scores of militants. A large amount of weapons and munitions was also destroyed after the fierce gun battle.

The Syrian government says the chaos that began in the country over two years ago is being orchestrated from outside. Many people, including large numbers of Syrian army and security personnel, have been killed in the turmoil.

Damascus also says the West and its regional allies including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey are supporting the militants.

Several international human rights organizations have accused militants operating in Syria of committing war crimes.