Sat Dec 07 16:29:03 UTC 2024: ## Rebel Forces Seize Major Syrian Cities, Damascus Under Threat

**BEIRUT, SYRIA** — A major offensive by rebel forces in Syria has dramatically shifted the balance of power, resulting in the loss of several key cities to government control. The stunning advance, which began on November 27th, has seen the capture of Daraa, Hama, and Aleppo, leaving President Bashar al-Assad’s regime teetering on the brink of collapse.

According to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, rebels, primarily led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), now control over 90% of Daraa province, including the city itself. The rebels have also reached the outskirts of Homs, Syria’s third-largest city, and are actively fighting in its suburbs. Furthermore, insurgent forces have reached the suburbs of Damascus, the capital city, prompting widespread unease among residents and heightened security measures. Reports indicate that in Jermana, a suburb of Damascus, protestors have toppled a statue of Hafez al-Assad, Bashar al-Assad’s father.

The rapid advance has prompted international concern. India has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to leave Syria immediately. The United States, under President Trump’s previous stance, has declared its intention to remain uninvolved, while Turkey has expressed its hope for peace in Syria, albeit acknowledging its support for President Assad’s ally. Iran, however, has urged political dialogue between the Syrian government and opposition groups. Russia, a key ally of Assad, has expressed concern about the threat to its military installations in the country, namely the Hmeimim airbase and the Tartous naval facility. Hezbollah has reportedly deployed 2,000 fighters to defend key areas.

Lebanon has closed its land borders with Syria, except for the main route to Damascus, while Jordan has also urged its citizens to leave and closed its border crossing. Qatar’s Prime Minister criticized Assad’s failure to engage with his people, and the Syrian army has reported counter-offensives in Homs and Hama provinces.

The conflict, which began in 2011 with a crackdown on pro-democracy protests, has already claimed over 500,000 lives and displaced millions. The current offensive represents a significant escalation, leaving the future of the country highly uncertain. The UN has reported over 280,000 people displaced in the northwest due to the recent escalation. Reports indicate that Iran is evacuating its military commanders from Syria. The US government is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need to protect civilians. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has also reported the capture of a valuable Russian-made surveillance radar system by rebels.

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