Syrian opposition factions, led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, have continued their advance towards Homs, Syria’s third-largest city, following their surprise capture of Hama to the north. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported on Friday that the factions have entered the towns of Rastan and Talbiseh in northern Homs countryside, with no government forces present.

The Observatory noted that government forces targeted a strategic bridge in Rastan overnight in an attempt to halt the opposition’s progress towards Homs, which the factions are now approximately five kilometers away from.

This advance is part of an offensive launched by the opposition on November 27, targeting Syrian government positions in the region. The factions have gained control over strategic towns located along the road connecting Hama and Homs.

In response, the government has sent significant military reinforcements to the outskirts of Homs, supported by Russian airstrikes, to contain the situation. Reports also indicate that Iranian-backed forces have entered the region to bolster the Syrian army.

This escalation comes amid international calls for a ceasefire and a return to negotiations, as the ongoing conflict exacerbates the humanitarian crisis and increases displacement.