In what has been termed as surprise attacks in Syria, Islamic State (IS) terror outfit has killed 22 pro-regime fighters including 11 soldiers. Reportedly, as many as twelve IS terrorists were also killed in the desert of the southern province of Sweida.

Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights head Rami Abdel Rahman said that 22 pro-regime combatants, who were killed also includes nine Iranians and fighters belonging to pro-Iran Shiite militias.

IS has ramped up its attacks against pro-government forces since its fighters in May left their last stronghold near Damascus under an evacuation deal with the regime.