Syrian rebel forces have made rapid advances and are now reportedly approaching the outskirts of Damascus, marking a potential turning point in the long-running conflict.
According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the rebels have established a presence in Damascus suburbs including Maadamiyah, Jaramana, and Daraya. This marks the first time since 2018 that opposition forces have reached the capital’s periphery.
Rebel leader Hassan Abdul-Ghani claims the opposition has entered the “final phase” of their offensive, with the stated goal of encircling Damascus. The advances come at a critical moment when the Syrian government appears particularly vulnerable, with key allies Russia and Hezbollah preoccupied with other conflicts.
The Syrian Ministry of Defense has denied reports of military withdrawal, though local sources tell a different story. The mayor of Al-Qaim, an Iraqi border town, reported that approximately 2,000 Syrian soldiers have crossed into Iraq, with some seeking medical treatment for injuries.
The Syrian presidential office has strongly rejected rumors that President Bashar al-Assad has left Damascus, asserting that he remains in the capital and continues to perform his official duties.
The rebel offensive represents a severe challenge to al-Assad’s regime, occurring at a time when traditional Syrian government allies are significantly distracted. Russia is engaged in its ongoing war in Ukraine, while Hezbollah in Lebanon has been weakened by its conflict with Israel.
This developing situation could potentially reshape the geopolitical landscape of Syria, though the ultimate outcome remains uncertain.
HORSEED MEDIA
