Ever since the Islamic State have taken over territory in Syria, an ancient city which has witnessed a history of thousands of years has been turned into a theatre of horror and barbaric violence. After beheading a historian in Palmyra who refused to reveal hidden artifacts, and using an ancient theatre to kill 25 Syrian soldiers, IS has demonstrated increased brutality.
Although there are reports that airstrikes by US and recently by Russian forces have weakened the IS, the extremist organisation on Sunday tied three detainees to roman era pillars of a 2000 year old structure, and blew up the entire structure . After beheadings, this is the first time someone has been executed in this manner, as reported by BBC .
Locals are yet to be told who the detainees were and why they were killed, as no one was allowed to be present at the site and witness the execution. Activists suggest that the killings along with destruction of heritage sites is an attempt to gain media attention and send a message. Earlier this week, horrific images of IS militants crushing a captured soldier with a tank surfaced.