HTS and its allies have strengthened their forces over the past four years by investing in professionalization, acquiring drones, and increasing rocket and missile production. They have also improved their diplomatic ties by negotiating with various groups traditionally hostile to them. Despite reports of HTS-led forces advancing towards northern Homs, the Syrian defense ministry claimed they were targeting rebels in Hama. The Syrian civil war has been marked by heavy Russian-led bombings, including recent strikes on the Rustan bridge near Homs. The Israeli Air Force has also attacked border crossings and infrastructure on the Syria-Lebanon border, targeting weapon-smuggling routes used by Hezbollah. The Syrian Democratic Forces, supported by the U.S., have seized government positions in Raqqa and Deir Ez-Zour. The conflict in Syria continues to escalate, with various factions vying for control amid ongoing violence and regional power struggles.
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Thousands escape as Syrian rebels approach third major city
