Homs, Dec 07 (V7N) — Rebel groups have advanced to the outskirts of Homs, Syria's third-largest city, after gaining control over key areas in Aleppo and Hama. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a prominent rebel faction, has called for government forces to retreat, according to a message broadcast on Telegram on Friday, as reported by Reuters.

HTS has reportedly captured the last village along Homs' border and is pushing forward by seizing strategic locations such as Rastan and Talbis. However, a bridge linking these towns to Homs was destroyed in a joint Russian-Syrian overnight bombardment, causing significant disruption.

At least 20 people were killed in the airstrikes, and the escalating violence has prompted widespread panic. Civilians in Homs are fleeing westward to escape the intensifying conflict.

Homs holds immense strategic importance as it serves as a critical link between Damascus and Syria's coastal regions. The city is located approximately 46 kilometers south of Hama, underscoring its significance in the ongoing conflict.

The situation remains fluid as rebel forces consolidate their gains and government troops, supported by Russian airstrikes, attempt to halt their advance. The unfolding developments in Homs are expected to shape the trajectory of the Syrian civil war in the coming weeks.

END/RH/AJ