In a stunning turn of events, Syrian rebels have made significant gains against President Bashar al-Assad’s forces, capturing the pivotal cities of Daraa, Homs, Aleppo, and Hama within just a week. This daring offensive, which commenced on 27 November 2024, marks one of the most rapid shifts in the battlefield dynamics of the long-standing Syrian conflict.
Rebels Celebrate in Daraa
On 7 December 2024, reports emerged that the rebels had taken control of Daraa, the symbolic birthplace of the uprising against Assad, with social media videos showing jubilant locals firing celebratory shots into the air. The military’s withdrawal appears to have been secured through a deal allowing safe passage for army officials to Damascus, located about 100 kilometres north.
The Fight for Homs
- Rebels claim they are advancing towards Homs, a critical crossroads city linking Damascus to the north.
- Thousands of residents fled Homs ahead of the rebel offensive, with many heading towards the government stronghold of Latakia.
- Homs’ capture would cut off governmental supply routes, increasing pressure on the Assad regime.
International Reactions and Consequences
The ongoing conflict has prompted alarming responses from international players. Israeli air strikes targeted infrastructure along the Syrian-Lebanese border, saying it was necessary to disrupt weapons transfers to Hezbollah. Additionally, Russian airstrikes have intensified, claiming to have killed numerous insurgents as the situation escalates.
Rebel Momentum and Regional Tensions
This insurgency is particularly significant as it showcases the first major rebel advances since a protracted stalemate left many front lines frozen. As Assad’s forces struggle to maintain their positions, the deteriorating situation could indicate even greater instability within the region. Amidst these developments, Iranian military personnel have started evacuating due to their inability to fully support Assad’s regime, as reported by several regional sources.
A Call to Action
In an online message, a rebel operations room has urged Homs residents to rise up amidst the chaos. The message highlights a turning point in the ongoing civil war, with the primary rebel faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, vowing to continue their march toward Homs and beyond.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Assad regime will respond to these escalating threats, but one thing is certain—the battle for Syria is far from over.