Reports from major news agencies and confirmation by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights

Syrian Army Withdraws from Key Cities as Rebels Encircle Damascus in Final Phase

Dec 7, 2024, 03:51 PM

The Syrian army has begun withdrawing from several key cities, including Homs, Deir ez-Zor, Raqqa, and Daraa, as rebel forces advance towards Damascus. Opposition Commander Hassan Abdulghani announced that rebel forces have begun the final phase of encircling the capital, with forces entering the southern suburbs, including the Darayya suburb. Reports indicate that government troops are evacuating key military installations in Damascus, including the General Staff Headquarters and the Air Command center. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has confirmed the withdrawals, marking a significant setback for President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Rebel groups are sending reinforcements from the north and south to support operations around Damascus and have reportedly reached positions within 10 kilometers of the capital.