Syrian Rebels Gain Ground Amid New Uprising and Shifting Alliances

Syrian rebels have launched a significant offensive, capturing the city of Hama, marking a major setback for President Bashar al-Assad and his allies, Russia and Iran. This advance, led by the group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, threatens Assad's control as it opens a strategic path towards Homs and potentially Damascus. Despite Russian airstrikes, the rebels have made rapid gains from Aleppo and Idlib, challenging the Syrian regime's hold on key territories. Assad has vowed to counter the rebel advances, accusing Western powers of attempting to alter regional dynamics.