Rebel forces successfully entered and captured the Syrian city of Hama, forcing government troops to retreat. The militants, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), freed hundreds of prisoners from the city’s central prison. This development marks a potential turning point in the country’s long-standing civil war, as Hama has historically been a stronghold for the government. The Syrian Defense Ministry confirmed the insurgent infiltration, citing the safety of civilians as a reason for the military’s withdrawal from the city. Independent verification of the events is challenging due to restrictions on journalism imposed by the Syrian government.
The capture of Hama by HTS-led forces comes after the group’s surprise offensive in Aleppo, the country’s most populous city. The strategic significance of Hama lies in its military resources, making it a critical loss for the government. Analysts suggest that the next target for the rebels could be the city of Homs, located south of Hama. The conflict in Syria has been characterized by intense aerial bombardments from government forces, supported by Russia and Iran. Prior to retreating from Hama, Assad’s troops carried out airstrikes using helicopter gunships and barrel bombs.
The capture of Hama by rebel forces may alter the dynamics of the civil war, potentially shifting the balance of power in favor of the insurgents. The city’s historical significance and strategic importance make it a valuable asset in the conflict between President Bashar al-Assad’s regime and opposition groups. Further developments in the region, including the potential targeting of Homs, could shape the trajectory of the ongoing conflict in Syria.
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