Damascus (Web Desk/Agencies): The situation in Syria has dramatically escalated, with rebel forces advancing rapidly and seizing key cities across the country.
After a decisive sweep into Aleppo a week ago, the rebels have captured significant urban centers such as Hama, Deir al-Zor, and now Deraa and Suweida in the south, with Homs also on the verge of falling.
This string of victories has sent shockwaves through the region, prompting concerns over a new wave of instability.
The Syrian military, already stretched thin, has struggled to halt the rebel momentum, despite airstrikes and reinforcing efforts around key cities like Hama and Homs.
The defense of Homs is particularly crucial; if captured by the rebels, it would sever the vital link between the capital, Damascus, and the coastal regions where Assad's Alawite minority sect holds significant power.
While Assad's forces have relied heavily on external support from Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah, their capacity to intervene has weakened in recent months.
Russia has diverted attention to its war in Ukraine, while Hezbollah has faced heavy losses in its conflict with Israel.
Iran has been more focused on bolstering local Iraqi militias but has so far refrained from sending large forces into Syria.
The rebel advances, particularly in Homs, have prompted civilian evacuations and raised the possibility of a broader assault on Damascus. With Deraa and Suweida captured, a direct threat to Assad’s rule in the capital looms, and discussions between major foreign powers—including Russia, Turkey, and Iran—are underway to address the escalating conflict.
The rapid gains by the rebels and the weakening of Assad's defenses indicate that the government’s hold on power is increasingly fragile, with key regions falling into rebel hands.
The situation remains fluid, and it is unclear whether Assad can regroup or whether the rebels can sustain their momentum.