The Syrian Defense Ministry has dismissed recent reports suggesting that government forces have withdrawn from rural areas around Damascus, labeling these claims as “a disinformation campaign aimed at spreading panic.”
In a statement released on Saturday, the ministry asserted that the Syrian army remains fully deployed in the countryside surrounding the capital and is prepared to confront “any terrorist aggression.” This response comes amid multiple reports indicating that government troops have pulled back from positions in southern provinces, including Quneitra and Daraa near the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights, as well as Sweida.
Rebel forces in Daraa have reportedly advanced to within 20 kilometers of Damascus after seizing numerous military posts and reportedly persuading some government units to surrender or defect. Late on Friday, opposition fighters announced they had taken control of Daraa city, the provincial capital.
These developments highlight the escalating conflict between government forces and rebel groups, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, as both sides vie for territorial gains since November 27.
The situation remains fluid, with tensions rising in the region as both sides continue to engage in fierce battles for control of strategic areas in Syria’s southern provinces.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
