The Syrian Defense Ministry on Saturday firmly dismissed rumors claiming that army forces had pulled back from the rural areas surrounding Damascus. Labeling these reports as a \"disinformation campaign aimed at spreading panic,\" the ministry emphasized that the Syrian army remains fully deployed and vigilant in the region.
Despite the official denial, multiple sources have emerged suggesting that government troops are retreating from strategic positions in southern provinces such as Quneitra, Daraa near the Golan Heights, and Sweida. These withdrawals have fueled concerns among residents and international observers about the stability of the area.
In a significant development, rebel groups in Daraa have reportedly advanced to within 20 kilometers of Damascus, capturing several military posts along the way. There are also reports of government units surrendering or defecting under the pressure of opposition fighters. Late Friday, opposition forces claimed control of Daraa city, the provincial capital, marking a notable shift in the conflict dynamics.
These events highlight the intensifying battle between Syrian government forces and rebel groups, particularly those led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, as both sides vie for territorial gains since late November. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for regional security and humanitarian conditions in the affected areas.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
