Syrian rebels took full control of the key city of Homs after only a day of fighting, leaving President Bashar al-Assad’s rule in jeopardy as insurgents advanced on the capital, Damascus. Thousands of residents celebrated in the streets as the army withdrew, chanting slogans against Assad. The capture of Homs gives the rebels control over strategic territory, cutting off Assad’s stronghold from Damascus. The rebels have made a dramatic comeback in the conflict, freeing detainees and toppling statues in their victory. The battle for control is likely to shift to Damascus, with residents already protesting against Assad. The Syrian army is reinforcing around the capital as foreign officials predict the government may collapse soon. Amid fears of regional instability, various countries issued a joint statement calling for a political solution to the crisis. The rebel group leading the charge, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has tried to reassure minorities and the international community of their intentions. Assad’s allies, like Russia and Iran, have supported him in the conflict, but their ability to do so has been limited by other conflicts and losses. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has advocated for the U.S. to stay out of the conflict and let events unfold. The situation remains volatile as the rebels advance towards the capital, posing a threat to Assad’s five-decade rule.
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Rebels seize strategic city of Homs, set sights on Damascus
