Footage released by Islamic State-affiliated news agency Amaq reportedly shows IS forces taking control of Palmyra on 11 December. Fighters can be seen standing next to abandoned Russian tanks and armoured personnel carriers at security checkpoints after Syrian and Russian forces fled the city. The ancient city is viewed as a significant battleground in the war against IS, having originally been seized by IS forces in May 2015, it was taken back by Syrian and Russian troops in March 2016. The recapture of Palmyra was seen as a huge success and a concert was even held in the city. Now IS has captured the city famed for its ancient ruins, taken prisoners and seized valuable weaponry.