Rebel forces in Syria, led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have launched a major offensive around the city of Hama, cutting off key supply routes and surrounding the city on three sides. The assault, described as one of the most significant advances in years, has pushed to within three kilometers of Hama and has captured several nearby villages, including Umm Tizin.
Government forces under President Bashar al-Assad have mounted counterattacks with support from Russian airstrikes and Iranian-aligned militias, but reports suggest substantial losses, including abandoned military vehicles and equipment. Rebel forces have reportedly entered parts of the city, though Syrian state media disputes these claims.
Russian Su-25 attack aircraft strikes in northern Hama with rockets in a dive attack.
Given that Syrian opposition forces have now more advanced capabilities than MANPADS, it appears that Russians are taking risks. pic.twitter.com/eyJ9a5s5wG
— Clash Report (@clashreport) December 4, 2024
#Syria: the #Assad regime has now started arming #Hama‘s traffic police and put them to the task of defending the city.
Those looks really say it all. pic.twitter.com/DZfX4F0CC4
— Thomas van Linge (@ThomasVLinge) December 4, 2024
Hama’s fall would mark a critical setback for Assad, as the city is a vital hub connecting Damascus to northern regions like Aleppo. Russian Su-25 aircraft have been conducting airstrikes, and reinforcements continue to arrive in the area as the government attempts to reclaim lost ground.
The offensive has triggered a humanitarian crisis, with the United Nations reporting that around 150,000 civilians have fled due to the fighting. UN envoy Geir Pedersen has warned of the escalating crisis, describing the situation as dangerous and volatile.
HTS has solidified its leadership in the rebel alliance, raising concerns among Assad’s allies and international observers. The group’s leader, Abu Mohammed al-Joulani, appeared in Aleppo following its capture, signaling their growing dominance. The rapid rebel advance has also resulted in the seizure of military bases and weapons, intensifying challenges for government forces.
