Israel paratroopers and soldiers of the Golani Brigade captured Syrian-held positions on Mt. Hermon in bitter fighting that started last night and continued this morning. One of the positions taken had been held by Syrian forces since they launched their surprise attack on the Golan Heights Oct. 6.
A military communique said paratroops were dropped on Mt. Hermon during the night and battled entrenched Syrian forces with artillery and air force support. At dawn. Israeli forces were clearing Syrians from bunkers and trenches in close range battles using hand grenades.
The communique said the Syrians had no escape route and fought bitterly. According to the Israeli report, four Syrian helicopters with MIG escorts attempted to drop re-enforcements at the Syrian positions. Twelve of the MIGS and-all but one of the helicopters were shot down, the Israeli report said.
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