Syrian rebels claimed to have captured Homs, the largest province in Syria, cutting off the road between Damascus and the coast. The rebels, led by HTS, captured several other cities as well and are closing in on Damascus. Independent verification of these claims is challenging due to restricted media access. Syrian troops have withdrawn from Homs and other areas, and rebels have made significant advances, leading to the fall of Aleppo and Hama in the north. The rebels’ success in Daraa and Homs signals a growing vulnerability in Assad’s hold on power. Russia and Iran, long-time supporters of Assad, have seen their influence weakened by broader regional tensions. The rebels’ rapid advance has put pressure on government forces, with battles also raging against Kurdish forces in eastern Syria. Jordan closed its border crossing due to security concerns in southern Syria, and Syrian government forces withdrew from Israeli-controlled Golan Heights for the first time in years. Over 820 people, including civilians, have been killed since the rebels began their offensive. Analysts suggest that if the rebels take Homs, it could be the end game for Assad, but the final outcome of the conflict remains uncertain based on the Syrian army’s fighting spirit and support from Russia and Iran.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
Syrian rebels seize control of Homs and make progress toward Damascus
