Syria’s anti-regime rebels have made significant advances, claiming to have reached “the gates of Damascus” just a day after launching an offensive in the southern Daraa region. The rebel Free Syrian Army group announced their fighters are now positioned at the outskirts of the Syrian capital, marking a swift territorial gain.
The offensive in Daraa, initiated early Friday by the southern Syrian rebels, has rapidly resulted in the capture of territory in the southern countryside. The rebels' progress now places them only a few miles away from the city center, indicating a notable shift in the conflict dynamics.
Verified videos have shown rebel activities in various pockets of the outer southern suburbs of Damascus since Saturday afternoon. In Moadamyeh, located just 10 kilometers southwest of the city center, residents were seen jubilantly celebrating on the streets after successfully expelling regime forces from their suburb, situated near a military airport. Additionally, rebels have asserted control over Darayya, slightly west of Moadamyeh, further consolidating their territorial gains.
In the southeastern area of Jaramana, residents took a symbolic stand against the regime by toppling a large sculpture of former President Hafez al-Assad, the father of current Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. This act underscores the residents' defiance and opposition to the ruling regime, reflecting the deep-seated sentiments prevalent in the region.
The rapid advancement of the anti-regime rebels towards Damascus signifies a significant development in the ongoing conflict in Syria. The proximity of rebel forces to the capital raises concerns about potential escalations and the impact on the civilian population. The situation remains fluid, with the rebels poised for further strategic moves as they continue their offensive in the region.
