Jihadist groups surround Hama in Syria

Jihadist groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) have continued their advance in Syria since November 27. Continuing their operations against Assad forces, the jihadist groups have surrounded the key city of Hama from three sides.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights stated that only one exit remains from Hama toward Homs in the south, noting that the jihadist groups are 3 to 4 kilometers away from Hama following intense clashes with Assad forces.

Reports in the Arab press indicated that the jihadist groups have seized control of several strategic towns and villages in Hama, including Tal al-Nasiriyah, Rahbat al-Taslih, Maarshahur, Taybat Al-Imam, Halfaya, and Khattab.

The reports stated that Assad forces have retreated from many points in Hama. Hama is located on a strategically important road connecting Aleppo, Homs, and Damascus.