The revolutionary forces spearheading the Repelling the Aggression campaign have made significant advances in Hama Governorate, capturing several strategic towns and villages. The campaign, which began as a response to regime airstrikes and attacks on civilians, has shifted the military and political balance in northern Syria.
The campaign has liberated key areas, including Rahbat al-Taslih, Maarshahur, Taybat al-Imam, and Halfaya, and some regime elements retreated from parts of Hama City toward Salamiyah. The withdrawal included the removal of wealth and documents from local banks and the closure of exchange offices.
Amer al-Sheikh, a prominent leader within the revolution’s Command of Military Operations (CMO), confirmed the momentum of the campaign, emphasizing its objectives: “securing the return of the displaced, ending corruption and tyranny, and building a new Syria that accommodates all its people.” Al-Sheikh noted that the Shaheen Brigades have also targeted Hama Military Airport, a hub for airstrikes on civilian areas in Idlib and Aleppo.
The UN has expressed concern over the escalating violence in northern Syria, labeling the past two days as the most intense in the region’s recent history. UN officials have called for the protection of civilians and infrastructure amid fears of a growing humanitarian crisis.
Turkish President Erdogan urged the Assad regime to engage in a serious political process to prevent further escalation. In contrast, Iran’s Ali Akbar Velayati accused Turkey of falling into a “trap” set by the US and Israel, pledging continued support for the Assad regime. Meanwhile, Qatar has reiterated the importance of a political solution to end the Syrian crisis, stressing collaboration with regional partners, and will host talks with the Astana process guarantors in the upcoming days.
Al-Sheikh emphasized that the newly liberated areas are seeing improvements in governance and living conditions, with strict directives issued to revolution fighters to respect civilian rights. Any violations are reportedly being dealt with firmly to ensure security and justice. He also urged regime soldiers to defect, guaranteeing their safety and declaring, “The era of Assad is over.”
Hama is a critical military and logistical hub, linking northern and southern Syria and connecting Damascus with Aleppo. Control over the city would significantly disrupt regime supply routes and isolate key strongholds in the Alawite Mountains and Tartus.
The revolution’s advances have also rekindled the city’s historical significance. Hama was the site of a brutal 1982 massacre under Hafez al-Assad, leaving a lasting scar on Syrian society. For many, the city’s liberation symbolizes a broader rejection of the Assad family’s decades-long oppression and grip on power.
Despite its rapid advances, the revolution faces challenges. The Assad regime continues to conduct airstrikes on residential areas in Hama and Idlib, intensifying fears of civilian casualties. Meanwhile, regime reinforcements have reportedly mobilized in and around Hama city.
The Repelling the Aggression campaign has also drawn attention from global powers with vested interests in Syria. The unfolding developments in Hama will likely impact regional dynamics and the broader political negotiations surrounding the Syrian conflict.
With each passing day, revolutionary forces are reshaping the military and political landscape in northern Syria. Their successes in Hama mark a significant step toward achieving their stated goals, yet challenges remain as regime forces and their allies regroup.
For residents of Hama, these developments offer a glimmer of hope for liberation and the restoration of justice after years of oppression. However, the city’s future depends on sustained support, effective governance, and continued efforts to address the humanitarian needs of its people.
