Syrian Rebels Take Control Of Hama In Major Setback For Assad.
Syrian rebels have announced full control over Hama, a key city in the country’s civil war, following the withdrawal of military troops in a significant defeat for President Bashar al-Assad. This development comes after the rebels captured Aleppo last week, intensifying pressure on Assad’s government.
Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani, the leader of the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), declared victory in Hama and called for restraint, pledging that no acts of revenge would follow. He described the event as a moment to “cleanse the wound that has endured in Syria for 40 years.” His comments referenced the 1982 massacre in Hama, during which up to 25,000 people were killed under the late President Hafez al-Assad’s regime.
Key Developments in Hama
The rebels made significant progress after breaching government defensive lines north of Hama following days of intense fighting. Despite reinforcements from the military and support from Russian air strikes and Iran-backed militia fighters, government troops were unable to hold the city. The military announced its redeployment outside Hama, stating it aimed to preserve civilian lives and avoid urban combat.
During the offensive, HTS fighters seized Hama’s central prison, releasing hundreds of inmates who were later seen celebrating outside. Rebel forces also cleared Hama’s military airport and Jabal Zain al-Abadin, a strategically significant hill overlooking the Damascus-Aleppo highway. Videos and photos verified by news agencies showed fighters in several north-eastern neighbourhoods, marking their control of the city.
Rebel commander Hassan Abdul Ghani confirmed the city’s liberation, stating that combing operations were complete. He added that these victories were pivotal in the rebels’ broader campaign.
Implications for Assad’s Regime
The fall of Hama, a city of over one million residents located 110km south of Aleppo, represents a critical blow to Assad’s government. Historically reliant on support from Russia and Iran to suppress opposition, Assad now faces uncertain prospects as his allies are preoccupied with their own affairs.
The rebel advance has raised questions about Assad’s ability to counter the growing threat, with Homs, the next major city on the highway to Damascus, potentially at risk.
Background to the Conflict
Syria’s civil war, which began in 2011 after the violent crackdown on pro-democracy protests, has claimed over 500,000 lives. Both the current and former regimes have faced accusations of deploying heavy-handed tactics against dissent.
With control of Hama and Aleppo, the rebels have gained significant momentum, but the broader implications for the conflict remain uncertain. As battles continue to reshape the country’s landscape, the plight of civilians and the possibility of further escalation hang heavily over Syria’s future.
