In A Shock Offensive, Insurgents Breach Syria's Largest City For The
Damascus, Syria - In a major escalation of Syria's long-running conflict, insurgent groups have launched a surprise offensive and breached the capital city of Damascus, seizing control of several key districts.
The offensive began early Monday morning with a series of coordinated attacks by rebel forces on government checkpoints and military bases on the outskirts of the city. The insurgents swiftly overwhelmed security forces and gained control of several neighborhoods, including Jobar and Qaboon in the northeast.
"This is the first time insurgents have managed to penetrate into Damascus proper," said a spokesperson for the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. "It is a significant development that could have major implications for the conflict."
The Syrian government has responded with a fierce counteroffensive, sending in reinforcements and launching airstrikes on rebel positions. Heavy fighting is ongoing in several districts, with both sides reporting casualties.
"We will not allow the terrorists to take over Damascus," President Bashar al-Assad vowed in a nationally televised address. "We will fight back with all our might."
The United Nations and other international organizations have expressed concern over the escalation of violence in Damascus. They have called for an immediate ceasefire and warned of the potential for a humanitarian crisis.
"The situation in Damascus is extremely alarming," said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. "We urge all parties to halt the fighting and allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need."
The outcome of the current battle for Damascus is uncertain. Insurgents may be able to hold their ground and gain further territory, which would be a major setback for the government.
Alternatively, government forces may be able to repel the rebel offensive and regain control of the city. In either case, the fighting is likely to continue for some time, with severe consequences for the civilian population.
Experts believe that the offensive could be a sign of desperation by rebel forces, who have been losing ground to government advances in other parts of Syria. It could also be an attempt to capture a symbolic victory and boost morale.