Syrian Observatory of Human Rights, citing local activists. The organization reported that IS “dominated large parts of the northern district,” following “violent clashes with security forces.” This video from a local activist organization is described as showing IS raising a flag in the city. A Syrian flag can also be seen.Clashes between IS and government forces reportedly took place near the 13th-century Palmyra castle on May 13, after the militant group seized a nearby tower. The city, which dates back to the first century, is a gateway to oil fields and routes to Damascus and Deir Ezzor. Credit: Facebook/Palmyra Coordination">