Syrian Opposition Forces Seize Control of Key Cities, Assad Regime Loses Foothold
A series of lightning offensives by Syrian opposition forces has resulted in the capture of several strategically important cities and provinces, dealing a significant blow to the Assad regime’s grip on power.
Anti-Regime Fighters Make Rapid Gains
Clashes between Assad regime forces and anti-regime armed groups erupted on November 27 in rural areas west of Aleppo, a major city in northern Syria. From there, the momentum shifted dramatically in favor of the opposition.
On November 30, opposition fighters seized control of most of Aleppo’s city center, followed by the complete takeover of Idlib province on the same day. A fierce battle for control of Hama led to the opposition taking the city center last Thursday.
The opposition’s advance continued, seizing settlements in Homs, a strategically important province and a gateway to Damascus. By Friday, armed opposition groups had launched a successful operation in Daraa province, which borders Jordan. They recaptured the province’s capital after intense clashes.
Southern Syria Falls to Opposition
The momentum continued into Saturday as the opposition solidified their control over the entire province of Suwayda in southern Syria. Simultaneously, local opposition groups took control of the provincial center in Quneitra. In Homs, opposition forces captured the province’s center on the same day.
Damascus Falters as Regime Withdraws
In a stunning turn of events, opposition forces, having steadily gained momentum, entered the southern suburbs of Damascus later Saturday. Regime forces withdrew from key locations, including the defense and interior ministries, as well as the international airport. Faced with this rapidly deteriorating situation, the Assad regime lost all control of the capital by Sunday morning.
Military Leaders Discuss Developments in Syria
Meanwhile, Turkish Chief of General Staff Metin Gurak held separate discussions with his UK counterpart Tony Radakin and NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe Christopher Cavoli about the evolving situation in Syria.
Operation Dawn of Freedom Achieves Success
Separately, the opposition Syrian National Army successfully launched “Operation Dawn of Freedom,” targeting the PKK/YPG terrorist organization in the rural areas of Aleppo. By December 1st, the center of Tel Rifaat district had been liberated from terrorist control. The outcome of these offensives marks a potentially decisive moment in the Syrian conflict.
What prompted the actions of the opposition and capture of key cities by November 30th?
## Turning Tide? Syrian Opposition Gains Ground
**Host:** Joining us today is Dr. Alex Reed, a Senior Analyst on Middle Eastern affairs at the [Prestigious Think Tank Name]. Dr. Alex Reed, reports are coming in of significant advances by Syrian opposition forces. Can you shed some light on this developing situation?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** Indeed. We’re seeing what some are calling a turning point in the Syrian conflict. Following clashes near Aleppo on November 27th, opposition fighters have made astonishingly rapid gains, capturing key cities and provinces.
**Host:** Could you detail these gains?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** Absolutely. By November 30th, opposition forces had seized control of most of Aleppo’s city center, a major strategic victory [[1](https://apnews.com/article/syria-hts-assad-aleppo-fighting-2be43ee530b7932b123a0f26b158ac22)]. On the same day, Idlib province fell entirely into their hands. The following Thursday witnessed the capture of Hama city center after fierce fighting.
**Host:** How significant is this for the Assad regime?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** This marks a major challenge to the Assad regime’s authority and control over Syria. These cities represent vital strategic hubs, both symbolically and logistically. Losing them weakens the regime’s grip on key areas and potentially opens the door for further opposition advances.
**Host:** What factors are contributing to this sudden shift in momentum?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** While it’s still early to assess definitively, several factors seem to be at play. Reports suggest the opposition forces have benefitted from improved coordination and tactical prowess. They may also be receiving increased support, though the extent of external involvement remains unclear.
**Host:** What are the likely implications of these developments for the Syrian conflict?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** It’s too early to say definitively what the long-term implications will be. However, this is undoubtedly a significant development. These achievements embolden the opposition and could potentially lead to negotiations from a position of strength. The international community will be closely watching to see how the situation unfolds and whether these gains translate into a lasting shift in the balance of power.
**Host:** Dr. Alex Reed, thank you for sharing your insights.
