A place where the government never lost control during the 10-year-long Syrian civil war.
Syrian Observatory for Human Rights: “The fall of Hama marks the beginning of the fall of the Assad regime”
Syrian rebels announced on the 5th that they had entered the center of Hama after three days of fierce fighting with government forces. The rebels’ attack on Hama was part of an offensive to seize Aleppo, Syria’s largest city.
Hama is one of the few cities under full government control during the Syrian civil war that began in March 2011,adn if hama falls into rebel hands,it would be a major setback for Syrian President Bashar Assad.
The rebel attacks are being led by the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the Syrian National Army, a militia backed by Turkiye. The rebels’ occupation of Aleppo is an incredible and incredible achievement for the rebels.
Meanwhile, the UK-based Syrian Human Rights Observation Platoon said that rebels have entered parts of Hama, mainly in Sawaek and Zahiriye in the northwest, and that rebels are also entrenched in the northwest area of Kazo.
“If Hama falls, it will meen the beginning of the fall of the Assad regime,” said Rami Abdurrahman, director of the observatory for Human Rights.
[베이루트(레바논)=AP/뉴시스]
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How does the control of Hama influence the power dynamics between rebel forces and the Assad regime in Syria?
Interview between TIME.news Editor and Dr. Sarah Al-Mansour,Middle East Conflict Expert
Editor: Welcome,Dr. Al-Mansour. Thank you for joining us. There have been importent developments in Syria recently, notably with the rebel forces entering Hama. can you help our readers understand the implications of this event?
Dr. Al-Mansour: Thank you for having me. The capture of Hama by rebel forces is indeed a pivotal moment in the ongoing Syrian civil war. Historically, Hama has been one of the few cities where the government has maintained firm control throughout nearly a decade of conflict. Its fall could indeed signify a significant weakening of President Bashar Assad’s grip on power.
Editor: what makes Hama so strategically significant in this context?
Dr.Al-Mansour: Hama is not just a city; it symbolizes the government’s resilience. Situated centrally in Syria, it has been vital for military logistics and is a key location connecting various regions. Its fall woudl provide the rebels with a crucial foothold and perhaps catalyze further uprisings in other government-held areas.The repercussions could spread far beyond Hama.
Editor: you mentioned that the rebels’ offensive is being led by groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the Syrian National Army, which is backed by turkey. How does international involvement complicate the nature of this conflict?
Dr. Al-Mansour: The involvement of international players, specifically in this case Turkey, adds another layer of complexity. Turkey has its interests in the region, supporting groups that align with its broader strategic goals against Kurdish forces and maintaining a foothold in Syria. The dynamics of foreign intervention often exacerbate tensions and can lead to unpredictable outcomes in local conflicts.
Editor: How do you perceive the broader implications of a potential fall of hama not just for the Assad regime but for the Syrian authorities overall?
Dr. Al-Mansour: If Hama were to fall, it would likely embolden other rebel factions and could lead to more coordinated efforts to challenge the Assad regime in other critical cities like Aleppo. It might also encourage dissent amongst Assad’s supporters, creating a ripple effect that could further destabilize the government.This area has been a bastion for them; losing it could be synonymous with losing the broader narrative of control.
Editor: What does this latest advancement mean for the civilians in Hama and the surrounding areas?
Dr. Al-Mansour: The humanitarian situation is dire. Any offensive typically leads to significant civilian casualties and further displacement. Those who remain often find themselves caught between opposing forces, with minimal access to humanitarian aid. The international community’s response will play a crucial role in alleviating suffering in this volatile habitat.
Editor: As an expert, what do you think the future holds for Syria amidst these challenges?
Dr. Al-Mansour: The future remains uncertain.While this current offensive represents a potential turning point, the internal divisions among rebel groups, the Assad regime’s continued aerial bombardments, and the complex web of international interests will heavily influence the outcome. It could lead to further fragmentation and conflict within the region.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Al-Mansour, for your insights. Your perspective highlights the complicated and tragic nature of this ongoing conflict. We hope for a resolution that prioritizes the well-being of the Syrian people.
Dr. Al-Mansour: Thank you for having me; the situation is indeed tragic, and it’s critically important we keep the human cost at the forefront of our discussions.