Syrian Rebels Advance on Homs, Threatening Assad’s Regime Amidst Rapid Territorial Gains
Reports indicate long lines of vehicles leaving the city as residents prepare for potential violence.
Syrian rebels are making significant advances in their offensive against President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, particularly focusing on the strategic city of Homs.
As of Saturday, December 7, 2024, rebel forces have reportedly reached the outskirts of Homs, a critical junction connecting Damascus to the Mediterranean coast, which could potentially isolate the capital from key coastal strongholds held by Assad’s minority Alawite sect and his Russian allies.
The coalition of rebel factions, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), claims to have liberated the last village on the periphery of Homs and is now positioned at its gates. This rapid advance follows their recent capture of Aleppo and Hama, indicating a dramatic shift in control across central and northern Syria.
Capturing Homs would effectively sever the primary supply route between Damascus and the coastal areas, further weakening Assad’s grip on power. Analysts suggest this could lead to a significant reconfiguration of territorial control in Syria, dividing Assad’s territory into two distinct regions.
The rebel advances have triggered mass evacuations from Homs, with thousands fleeing towards government-held areas along the coast. Reports indicate long lines of vehicles leaving the city as residents prepare for potential violence.
In response to the escalating situation, government forces attempt to reinforce their defences in Homs. This includes airstrikes targeting rebel positions and the mobilization of Iranian-backed Hezbollah forces to bolster defences around the city.
The current offensive marks one of the most rapid shifts in battlefield dynamics since the Syrian civil war began over a decade ago. The recent gains by rebel forces highlight vulnerabilities in Assad’s regime, which has been propped up by Russian military support but is now facing challenges from multiple fronts.
Additionally, Kurdish forces have also made significant territorial gains in eastern Syria, further complicating the situation for Assad’s government.
As fighting intensifies, both Russia and Jordan have advised their citizens to leave Syria, reflecting growing concerns over stability in the region.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing battles expected as rebels continue their push towards Damascus.
