Syrian Rebels Make Major Gains, Capturing Historic City of Hama
Islamist rebel forces have captured the Syrian city of Hama, dealing another devastating blow to the Assad regime. The city’s fall marks the second major urban center to fall to rebels in as many months, raising concerns about the future of Assad’s grip on power.
Video footage circulating online shows jubilant rebel fighters celebrating in the streets of Hama. The victory comes after days of fierce fighting, with government forces pulling back in the face
of the rebel advance.
"This is a major turning point in the conflict," said one military analyst interviewed by Voice of America. “The capture of Hama, a significant historical and strategic location, sends a clear message: the Assad regime is increasingly vulnerable.”
The city of Hama holds profound historical and symbolic significance for Syrian rebels. It was the site of a brutal crackdown on an Islamist uprising in 1982, a dark chapter in Syria’s recent history. Decades later, rebels are now in control, hoping to prevent further bloodshed after years of brutal civil war.
The fall of Hama comes as pressure mounts on the Assad regime.
Rebels continue to make territorial gains, emboldened by international support, while facing limited opposition. The U.S. and Israel are closely monitoring the situation, with some analysts
speculating that further rebel advances could lead to direct intervention.
The Battle For Hama: A Turning Point
The battle for Hama was particularly intense, lasting days. Witnesses reported widespread damage to the
historical city, compounded by years of fighting in the surrounding province. Rebel groups, including Islamist factions, worked together to overwhelm government forces
and capture key strategic positions, ultimately forcing a late-night
withdrawal by the Syrian army.
This victory follows the rebel capture of Idlib province, another strategically important city, earlier
this year, highlighting the relentless advance
of rebel forces.
With Hama now in rebel hands, concerns are growing about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. Access to basic necessities like clean water and medical supplies remains
limited in the war-torn city.
Humanitarian workers warn of a potential escalation in casualties as fighting continues, underscoring
the urgent need for international aid and intervention.
The situation remains tense, with further clashes expected as Assad loyalists attempt to regain control.
What is the impact of the capture of Hama on the Assad regime?
## Interview: Syrian Rebels Capture Hama
**Host:** Joining us today is Dr. Sarah Khalil, a Middle East expert from the Institute for International Studies. Dr. Khalil, thank you for being here.
**Dr. Khalil:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** As we’ve just reported, Islamist rebel forces have captured the Syrian city of Hama, marking another major victory for them in the ongoing Syrian civil war. What does this mean for the future of the Assad regime?
**Dr. Khalil:** This is a significant development. Hama holds both historical and strategic importance. It is a major city with a large population and has been a center of resistance against the Assad regime throughout the conflict. The rebels capturing Hama adds to the momentum they gained with their capture of Aleppo a couple of months ago. [[1](https://apnews.com/article/syria-aleppo-hama-hts-russia-0189297bbdc76eee67cb4fdc62136bef)]
**Host:** Many analysts are saying this is a turning point in the war.
**Dr. Khalil:** Definitely. The fall of these major cities demonstrates the weakening grip of the Assad regime. While the situation remains complex and fluid, the rebels are clearly making significant gains.
**Host:** There are also concerns about the role of Islamist groups within the rebel forces.
**Dr. Khalil:** Yes, that’s another layer of complexity in this conflict. The rise of Islamist groups like HTS within the rebel ranks raises concerns about the future of Syria, should the Assad regime fall. What kind of government will emerge? What will happen to minorities? These are crucial questions that need to be addressed.
**Host:** Thank you for sharing your expertise with us today, Dr. Khalil.
**Dr Khalil:** My pleasure.