Syrian army withdraws from Hama as opposition forces push toward Homs

Syrian government forces have withdrawn en masse from Hama province amid a major opposition offensive, shifting their focus southward to strengthen defenses in Homs. The rapid retreat marks a critical moment in the ongoing conflict, raising questions about the regime’s ability to hold key territories.

Opposition groups opposing Bashar al-Assad’s regime have taken control of multiple towns in northern Hama, including Taybat al-Imam, Kafr Zita, Latamneh, and Morik, a strategically vital district on the M5 highway. The offensive leaves the opposition forces in striking distance of Homs, a central province and key stronghold for regime forces.

Rumours of withdrawal from Homs after Hama

According to local sources, Assad forces prepare to withdraw from Homs, as well. However, such claims have not been confirmed yet.

The Syrian Ministry of Defense confirmed the withdrawal from Hama on Saturday, describing it as a “temporary repositioning” aimed at bolstering defensive lines. “We are preparing for counteroffensives,” the ministry stated, according to reports from Al Jazeera Arabic.

It added that military units are being redeployed to reinforce positions in and around Homs.

The loss of Hama, a historically contested province, deals a significant blow to the regime, which has struggled to maintain its foothold in northern Syria.

Iran’s Foreign Minister will visit Türkiye

The developments in Aleppo and Hama have triggered renewed diplomatic discussions in the region. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a phone call with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, to address the escalating situation in Syria and its implications for the Astana peace process.

Fidan has also engaged with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, focusing on the Syrian conflict and broader regional stability.

Diplomatic sources have confirmed that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will meet with Fidan in Ankara on Monday to discuss the offensive and its potential fallout.

Assad speaks with UAE, Iraqi leaders

In a series of phone calls with key regional leaders, Assad reaffirmed his commitment to Syria’s security and territorial integrity, while emphasizing continued support from international allies.

In a conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani, Assad received reassurances about Iraq’s readiness to support Syria in combating terrorism. Al-Sudani reiterated that the security of both nations is intertwined, stressing Iraq’s willingness to assist Syria in its ongoing battle against terrorist threats.

Assad also spoke with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, discussing the latest developments in Syria and broader regional issues. The Syrian leader expressed confidence in Syria’s ability to defend its sovereignty, with the support of its allies, against growing terrorist attacks.

Opposition leader says advance intends to cut PKK supply lines

The Syrian Interim Government’s President Abdurrahman Mustafa said Saturday that their forces have launched a significant military operation targeting PKK/YPG supply routes, marking a new phase in the region’s ongoing conflict.

“We have launched an operation to cut off the PKK/YPG supply line and complete the corridor from el-Bab to Tel Rifat, achieving significant success against both Assad and PKK/YPG,” Mustafa told Turkish media outlet NTV.