On December 4, 2024, Syrian rebels have intensified their offensive against pro-government forces near Hama, aiming to capture a region historically dominated by President Bashar al-Assad's military.
Syria's Rebel Forces Escalate Offensive Near Hama
Syria's Rebel Forces Escalate Offensive Near Hama
In a rapidly changing battlefield, Syrian rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham are advancing towards Hama, long-held by Assad's regime.
The ongoing conflict in Syria sees rebels gaining control in the northwestern regions, including Idlib and Aleppo, prompting a fierce response from the Syrian military and its allies.
As clashes continue outside Hama, the rebel forces are reportedly seizing control of military bases and towns, while Assad's government is bolstering its defense with reinforcements and airstrikes, underscoring the volatility of the region.
In the latest developments, Syrian rebels launched intense battles against pro-government forces on the periphery of Hama, a significant city in western Syria, marking the continuation of a surprise offensive initiated the previous week.
The rebels, primarily organized under Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have swiftly expanded their territorial gains in northwestern Syria, now asserting control over Idlib Province and the city of Aleppo, alongside a major portion of Aleppo Province. Their ambitions appear to be directed towards Hama, a strategic area where Assad’s regime has traditionally held power.
On Wednesday, reports surfaced from the rebel command indicating the capture of multiple towns and villages adjacent to Hama, as well as a military base located on the city's outskirts. This followed their announcement of having gained control over Al-Mujanzarat Military Academy, one of the largest military installations held by the Syrian government, east of the city. Verification of these military claims remains challenging amidst the ongoing conflict.
In response to the rebel advances, Syria’s state news agency noted the arrival of substantial reinforcements aimed at thwarting the offensive. According to the director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, government forces have used artillery and airstrikes to momentarily push back the rebels from Hama.
As combat unfolds, Syrian airpower is increasingly targeting rebel-held areas. Reports from journalists indicated that one photojournalist lost their life during an airstrike in the north Hama countryside on Wednesday.
Russia, a crucial ally for the Assad regime, has been instrumental in military operations, providing air support to counter the rebel offenses. The Syrian military announced cooperation with Russian forces, claiming improved security for government troops trapped at the Assad Military Engineering Academy located in Aleppo, although specifics of the Russian involvement remained unclear.
The unfolding situation reflects an evolving front in the Syrian civil war, with both sides making strategic gains amid heavy combat, showcasing the ongoing struggle for control in a deeply fractured country.
As clashes continue outside Hama, the rebel forces are reportedly seizing control of military bases and towns, while Assad's government is bolstering its defense with reinforcements and airstrikes, underscoring the volatility of the region.
In the latest developments, Syrian rebels launched intense battles against pro-government forces on the periphery of Hama, a significant city in western Syria, marking the continuation of a surprise offensive initiated the previous week.
The rebels, primarily organized under Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have swiftly expanded their territorial gains in northwestern Syria, now asserting control over Idlib Province and the city of Aleppo, alongside a major portion of Aleppo Province. Their ambitions appear to be directed towards Hama, a strategic area where Assad’s regime has traditionally held power.
On Wednesday, reports surfaced from the rebel command indicating the capture of multiple towns and villages adjacent to Hama, as well as a military base located on the city's outskirts. This followed their announcement of having gained control over Al-Mujanzarat Military Academy, one of the largest military installations held by the Syrian government, east of the city. Verification of these military claims remains challenging amidst the ongoing conflict.
In response to the rebel advances, Syria’s state news agency noted the arrival of substantial reinforcements aimed at thwarting the offensive. According to the director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, government forces have used artillery and airstrikes to momentarily push back the rebels from Hama.
As combat unfolds, Syrian airpower is increasingly targeting rebel-held areas. Reports from journalists indicated that one photojournalist lost their life during an airstrike in the north Hama countryside on Wednesday.
Russia, a crucial ally for the Assad regime, has been instrumental in military operations, providing air support to counter the rebel offenses. The Syrian military announced cooperation with Russian forces, claiming improved security for government troops trapped at the Assad Military Engineering Academy located in Aleppo, although specifics of the Russian involvement remained unclear.
The unfolding situation reflects an evolving front in the Syrian civil war, with both sides making strategic gains amid heavy combat, showcasing the ongoing struggle for control in a deeply fractured country.
