In a rapid escalation, Syrian rebels have launched an aggressive offensive against pro-government forces near Hama, marking a significant shift in control in the region.
Syria’s Rebel Forces Intensify Offensive Near Hama
Syria’s Rebel Forces Intensify Offensive Near Hama
Rebels advance on key city, posing a threat to the Assad regime as fighters gain ground.
Dec. 4, 2024 – Syrian rebels have intensified their offensive on the outskirts of Hama, a pivotal city in western Syria, as they battle forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad. Following last week’s surprise attack, rebels have rapidly expanded their territorial control in northwestern Syria. Led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, they now dominate Idlib Province, the city of Aleppo, and large areas of Aleppo Province, with Hama now in their sights.
Reports indicate that on Wednesday, rebel forces captured multiple towns and villages near Hama, including a military base on the city's outskirts. The advance comes after claims of seizing Al-Mujanzarat Military Academy, a significant government facility east of the city, though these statements remain unverified.
In response to the rebel incursions, Syrian state media reported a surge of military reinforcements to Hama aimed at stalling opposition progress. Additionally, artillery fire and airstrikes from Syrian forces have reportedly pushed back some rebel fighters. However, airstrikes continued to target areas under rebel control, leading to casualties among journalists, including the death of photojournalist Anas Al-Kharbatli in a recent strike.
Russia, a critical ally for the Assad regime, has been reportedly conducting airstrikes and providing military support to assist Syrian forces. On Wednesday, the Syrian military claimed that Russian cooperation facilitated the rescues of troops besieged at the Assad Military Engineering Academy in Aleppo, although details on the situation remain sparse.
As the dynamics in the conflict evolve rapidly, the control map of near Hama indicates ongoing shifts as both sides vie for dominance in this strategically important area.
Muhammad Haj Kadour, Jacob Roubai, and Rania Khaled have contributed to this report. Vivian Yee is a journalist focused on North African and Middle Eastern affairs, based in Cairo.
Reports indicate that on Wednesday, rebel forces captured multiple towns and villages near Hama, including a military base on the city's outskirts. The advance comes after claims of seizing Al-Mujanzarat Military Academy, a significant government facility east of the city, though these statements remain unverified.
In response to the rebel incursions, Syrian state media reported a surge of military reinforcements to Hama aimed at stalling opposition progress. Additionally, artillery fire and airstrikes from Syrian forces have reportedly pushed back some rebel fighters. However, airstrikes continued to target areas under rebel control, leading to casualties among journalists, including the death of photojournalist Anas Al-Kharbatli in a recent strike.
Russia, a critical ally for the Assad regime, has been reportedly conducting airstrikes and providing military support to assist Syrian forces. On Wednesday, the Syrian military claimed that Russian cooperation facilitated the rescues of troops besieged at the Assad Military Engineering Academy in Aleppo, although details on the situation remain sparse.
As the dynamics in the conflict evolve rapidly, the control map of near Hama indicates ongoing shifts as both sides vie for dominance in this strategically important area.
Muhammad Haj Kadour, Jacob Roubai, and Rania Khaled have contributed to this report. Vivian Yee is a journalist focused on North African and Middle Eastern affairs, based in Cairo.
