Syrian rebels on the verge of capturing Hama, a city known for government atrocities

The Assad family, who are Alawite Muslims, have been fighting against various opposition groups seeking to overthrow them in Syria since 2011. The ongoing war has resulted in the deaths of an estimated half a million people. Recently, 50 government troops were killed by unidentified gunmen as they took control of 14 central villages and towns. Syrian troops are engaged in fierce battles in central Hama province, with reinforcements on their way. Syrian and Russian air forces have been conducting intense airstrikes in the area. Aid groups have warned of food shortages in northern Syria and are concerned that the recent escalation in violence could bring the country back to the darkest days of the conflict. Angelita Caredda of the Norwegian Refugee Council expressed concern over rising civilian casualties and the displacement of thousands of families. David Hodari, a London-based editor, reported on the situation. The information was contributed by Ammar Cheikh Omar of the Associated Press and Reuters.

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