Syrian Opposition Advances Towards Damascus After Entering Homs
Opposition factions advanced into Homs, heightening the threat to President Bashar al-Assad as they previously secured Aleppo and Hama. This move could sever communication between Damascus and the coast, fundamentally altering the conflict's dynamics. International reactions include U.S. calls for civilian protection and travel warnings from India. The regime's future remains uncertain.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
In a dramatic new development in the Syrian conflict, armed opposition factions entered the strategic city of Homs on Saturday, paving the way for their advance towards the capital, Damascus. This rapid progress comes just days after the opposition seized control of Aleppo and Hama, posing a significant challenge to President Bashar al-Assad's rule.
Homs Entry and Government Forces Withdrawal
According to sources from the Syrian army and opposition, armed factions entered Homs from the north and east. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the withdrawal of Syrian army forces from the city's vicinity. Homs, with a population of over 1.4 million, holds great strategic importance due to its location on the M5 highway and its relative proximity to Damascus.
Strategic Importance of Homs
Experts point out that the fall of Homs could have major implications for the course of the conflict. According to Charles Lister, Director of the Syria Program at the Middle East Institute, the fall of Homs would cut off communication between Damascus and the coast, effectively dividing what remains under government control into two parts.
Rapid Opposition Advance
The current opposition offensive began on November 27, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and its allies. Within a week, opposition forces managed to take control of Aleppo, Syria's second-largest city, and then Hama. This rapid advance poses an unprecedented challenge to the Assad regime, which is struggling to defend areas under its control.
International Reactions
As events escalate, the United States has called for the protection of civilians and minorities throughout Syria. India has also issued a warning to its citizens to avoid travel to Syria until further notice and urged Indians in the country to leave as soon as possible.
Next Steps
As the opposition approaches Damascus, concerns are growing about the fate of the capital and the future of the Syrian regime. The question remains whether Assad's forces will be able to repel this attack and whether he will be able to retain power in light of these rapid developments.
