A top Syrian watchdog group reports that ISIS militants have placed mines around the ancient city of Palmyra. Despite international fears, the militants did not destroy the ancient site when they took over the city in May. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says it’s not clear whether the mines are being brought in for a purposeful destruction of the site, or to help block Syrian forces who are expected to be planning an operation. “The city is a hostage in their hands, the situation is dangerous,” said Syria’s antiquities chief.
