Syrian Opposition Gains Control of Hama Amid Military Chaos
In a significant shift in the Syrian conflict, the city of Hama has fallen into the hands of the armed Syrian opposition factions. Military expert Colonel Hatem Karim Al-Falahi highlighted that the Syrian Ministry of Defense forces failed to establish a defensive line for the city, which facilitated its capture despite the considerable distance from Aleppo. Al-Falahi noted a prevailing state of chaos within the Syrian army, with reports of military vehicles being abandoned and troops moving to unknown locations.
The opposition's sustained military operations have left the Syrian Ministry of Defense unable to regain control, contributing to ongoing confusion within its ranks. Hama, located centrally between Damascus and Aleppo, is the fourth largest city in Syria and predominantly Muslim, with a small Christian minority. The city's environment has been described as hostile for Syrian army forces, exacerbating the military's collapse as soldiers felt increasingly targeted.
On Thursday, the Syrian opposition announced its entry into Hama, claiming control over key neighborhoods, the military airport, and the police command building, while also freeing hundreds of prisoners from the central prison. Al-Falahi anticipates that the Syrian Ministry of Defense may withdraw from nearby areas like Rastan and Talbiseh, as the opposition secures military sectors along the M5 road. He expressed concerns that the Syrian army's withdrawal under fire could signify a broader defeat as opposition forces continue their advance.
The Syrian Ministry of Defense, however, stated that its forces were redeploying outside Hama to protect civilians and would persist in efforts to reclaim areas taken by what it termed terrorist organizations. Al-Falahi questioned the opposition's ability to maintain momentum towards Homs, noting the significant distances involved, but acknowledged that capturing Homs would sever communication between Damascus and coastal regions.
Following the takeover of Hama, the Joint Operations Department of the Syrian opposition indicated that Homs was next in their sights. Reports also emerged of anti-aircraft defenses intercepting drones in Homs' airspace. Al-Falahi emphasized the need for the opposition to reorganize and strengthen its forces to ensure sustained control over newly acquired territories, while also suggesting the potential formation of a civilian government to administer Hama and establish internal security forces.
Despite the opposition's recent successes, Al-Falahi expressed skepticism regarding the Syrian army's ability to halt the rapid advance of opposition forces, given its current state of disarray. The conflict has escalated since November 27, with the opposition also capturing Aleppo and extending its reach into Idlib province.
