Rebel Advances Threaten Hama and Assad’s Hold on Power

Syrian rebel forces have made significant strides towards the major city of Hama, after capturing several villages near the city. This follows last week’s surprise seizure of Aleppo, which sent shockwaves through President Bashar al-Assad’s government. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and rebel groups reported the capture of Maar Shahur, located just north of Hama, while state media confirmed that government reinforcements are being sent to the region.

An assault on Hama would mark a critical turning point, escalating pressure on Assad, whose allies in Russia and Iran are scrambling to support his regime against a reinvigorated rebel movement. Hama has been under government control since the civil war began in 2011.

Iran, Russia, and Iraq Respond to Growing Threat

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi warned that Tehran could send troops to Syria if requested by Damascus, while Russian President Vladimir Putin urged an end to what he described as “terrorist aggression.” Iraq’s Prime Minister Shia al-Sudani also entered the fray, blaming Israeli airstrikes on Syria’s government for enabling the rebel advances.

Meanwhile, fighters from the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have engaged government forces in the northeast, intensifying the conflict and opening a new front along vital supply routes. The SDF, mainly led by Kurdish fighters, has taken over several villages previously held by Assad’s forces.

Competing Forces in a Crowded Battlefield

The dynamics of Syria’s conflict have become even more complicated, with multiple global powers involved. The US, Russia, Iran, and Turkey are all vying for influence in the region, while Israel continues to target Iranian-backed forces in Syria. Rebel gains in recent days have pushed the Kurdish YPG militia out of key areas near Aleppo, further complicating Assad’s position.

The situation in Syria is rapidly escalating, with airstrikes by both Syrian government and Russian warplanes intensifying against the rebels. At the same time, US forces have carried out airstrikes in the region, not directly related to the rebel offensive, but highlighting the volatile mix of local and international forces at play.