Rebels Enter Homs Amid Conflicting Reports
Syrian rebels have announced their entry into the strategic city of Homs, a claim swiftly denied by the Syrian military. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that anti-Assad fighters had taken control of several neighbourhoods in Homs following the withdrawal of government forces. However, Syria’s defence ministry described the claims as “unfounded,” insisting that its armed forces remain in strong defensive positions around the city.
Significance of Homs for Rebels and Government
Homs, Syria’s third-largest city, holds strategic importance as a crossroads to Damascus in the south and the regime’s heartland to the west. Its potential fall would be a major setback for President Bashar al-Assad, signalling further erosion of his government’s control. Rebel commander Hassan Abdul Ghani stated that fighters were combing through Homs, preparing to declare the city fully liberated.
Government Forces Retreat, Raising Questions
Residents and rebel sources reported the withdrawal of Syrian military personnel and Hezbollah fighters from the city. Eyewitnesses described security forces fleeing on motorbikes and military convoys departing along main highways. The Syrian army reportedly decided that Homs was no longer defensible, shifting focus to bolstering defences around Damascus.
Fear and Uncertainty in Damascus
As rebel forces close in on the capital, the mood in Damascus is one of fear and uncertainty. Residents reported empty streets and a rush to stockpile essentials amid rumours of an imminent assault. While the Syrian government has denied reports of President Assad fleeing the capital, his prolonged absence from public view has fuelled speculation about his whereabouts.
International Response to Escalating Crisis
The rapid developments in Syria have drawn international attention, with leaders from Russia, Iran, and Turkey holding emergency talks in Doha. The group emphasised the urgent need for a political solution to halt the violence and protect civilians. Meanwhile, the UN envoy for Syria called for immediate negotiations, warning that the situation posed a threat to regional stability.
Rebels Continue Offensive Across Syria
Rebel groups, led by Islamist faction Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have made significant territorial gains in recent weeks, capturing cities including Aleppo, Hama, and Deraa. With their sights now set on Damascus, the rebels have pledged to topple Assad’s regime. However, concerns remain about the humanitarian impact and the long-term implications for Syria’s fractured political landscape.
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