Reports from international news agencies and official government statements

Syrian Rebels Capture Hama and Aleppo, Reach 20 km from Damascus

Dec 7, 2024, 01:17 PM

Syrian rebels have captured the strategic city of Hama in a rapid battlefield advance, marking a pivotal moment in the 13-year civil war against President Bashar al-Assad. The insurgents have also seized control of Aleppo and Daraa, further weakening government forces. Following these victories, the rebels have pushed southward, seizing control of the northern countryside and advancing towards Homs, Syria's third-largest city. Tens of thousands of residents are fleeing Homs amid reports of the rebels entering the city from the north and east. The rebels have secured Sanamayn and have reached within 20 kilometers (12 miles) of Damascus. Rebel commander Hassan Abdul Ghany stated that their forces have begun implementing the final phase of encircling the capital. Meanwhile, the Syrian presidency has denied reports that President Assad has left Damascus, asserting that he remains in the city and is carrying out his duties as usual.