DAMASCUS — The Syrian Ministry of Defense denied reports on Saturday suggesting that its forces had withdrawn from Hama, confirming that the army remains firmly positioned in the northern and eastern countryside of the province.

The Ministry emphasized that the Syrian military is "fully prepared to repel any attacks on Hama and its surrounding areas."

It also stated that joint Syrian and Russian airstrikes are targeting militant gatherings, movements, and supply lines.

Meanwhile, pro-opposition TV station Syria reported that armed factions have begun entering the city of Hama.

Earlier in the day, the military operations wing of the armed factions announced their complete control over Aleppo and Idlib provinces, claiming to have severed the road connecting Aleppo and Raqqa.

Syria TV also reported that militants had taken control of the strategic town of Morek in northern Hama, intensifying the already volatile situation. — Agencies