pThe Syrian regime and allies advanced against Islamic State (IS) north of the hills of Safa in southeast Damascus, on Wednesday, August 29, said the Syrian state-run news channel, SANAa.ppFootage released by pro-government media shows regime forces active on the border of the Damascus Province Desert and Sweidaa.ppThe UK based Syrian Observatory for Human Rightsa reported that the regime forces were attempting further advances in the area, clamping down on IS, which has been holding at least 28a women and children hostage since July 25.ppAnti-Syrian government mediaa reported that a number of members of the regime forces and allies were killed by IS on Wednesday.