Rebels launched a major offensive against the Syrian government, capturing cities in a lightning offensive that expanded the territory under their control.
Rebels seized the city of Hama on Thursday, dealing a major new blow to President Bashar al-Assad and his Russian and Iranian allies.
The capture of Hama gives them control of the strategically located central city for the first time since the uprising against Assad turned into civil war 13 years ago.
Syria’s key ally Russia has been carrying out airstrikes against rebels led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, but it is unclear how – or when – Assad will be able to halt the advance, which could threaten the survival of his government.
