Insurgents Threaten Assad Rule: Syria’s Capital Under Siege
BEIRUT (AP) — In a stunning turn of events, insurgents have advanced across Syria, reaching the gates of the capital and forcing government forces to abandon the central city of Homs. The government was quick to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad had fled the country, but the situation remains dire as rebel forces gain ground.
Rebels Gain Control
The loss of Homs is a significant blow for Assad, as it stands at a crucial intersection between Damascus, the capital, and Syria’s coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus — key areas of support for the Syrian leader. Reports indicate that government forces have taken positions outside Syria’s third-largest city, but rebels have already entered parts of it. The insurgency later announced that they had successfully taken over Homs, marking a major victory for the rebel forces.
International Concern
These rapid rebel gains, coupled with a lack of support from Assad’s allies, have posed the most serious threat to his rule since the beginning of the war. The United Nations’ special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, has called for urgent talks in Geneva to ensure an “orderly political transition.” Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed his concern for the Syrian people, highlighting the shifting dynamics in the region.
Impact on the Ground
In Damascus, residents are feeling the effects of the escalating conflict, with people rushing to stock up on supplies and many shops closing their doors. The situation is causing widespread anxiety among the population, with fears of a potential battle in the capital looming large. Opposition forces have made significant advances, reaching the outskirts of Damascus for the first time since 2018, prompting the United Nations to move noncritical staff out of the country as a precaution.
Diplomatic Efforts
Diplomatic efforts are underway to address the escalating crisis, with foreign ministers and senior diplomats from key countries convening to discuss the situation in Syria. Calls for an end to hostilities and a political solution to the conflict have been echoed by various stakeholders, emphasizing the need for urgent action to prevent further destabilization of the region.
As the situation in Syria continues to evolve rapidly, the fate of the country hangs in the balance. With insurgents making significant gains and government forces facing mounting pressure, the future remains uncertain. Stay tuned for updates as the crisis unfolds.
