Part 5/8:
The Crumbling of Assad's Last Strongholds
The momentum reached a climax as the rebels pressed further towards Homs, a strategic city essential for controlling access to Damascus. As the regime's forces encountered fierce resistance and dwindling morale, reports of internal discontent and desertions became rampant within the Syrian military. Many soldiers, young and poorly trained, began to see their trust in the regime evaporate.
By December 7, as Homs fell to rebel forces, Damascus found itself increasingly vulnerable. Protests erupted in the streets, and regime officials began to defect. Within hours, the mood escalated from defiance to despair among Assad loyalists.