DAMASCUS — The Syrian army withdrew from key areas in the southern provinces of Daraa and Sweida on Saturday, leaving two provincial capitals under opposition control, as government forces redeployed to defend the central city of Homs.

The insurgent advances mark a dramatic shift in the Syrian conflict, with President Bashar Assad facing mounting challenges and dwindling support from his international allies.

The jihadi Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, classified as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the U.N., has led the offensive since November 27, capturing Aleppo, Syria’s largest city, and Hama, the fourth-largest. HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani stated their aim is to overthrow Assad's government.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that Iranian military advisers and Iran-backed fighters have largely withdrawn to central Syria, signaling a reduced presence of Assad’s key ally.

Meanwhile, Syrian government forces are fortifying defenses around Damascus and the central regions to counter the insurgents' momentum.

The situation is further complicated by regional dynamics. Iran, Russia, and Turkey are meeting in Qatar to address Syria’s escalating crisis.

Qatar’s foreign minister criticized Assad for failing to engage with his people during the relative calm of recent years, warning of Syria's territorial disintegration if a political process is not initiated.

With control now limited to five provincial capitals, including Damascus, Latakia, and Tartus, the Syrian government faces isolation as U.S.-backed Kurdish-led forces also gain ground in the eastern province of Deir el-Zour, severing key Iranian supply routes.

As opposition groups consolidate power in strategic regions, Assad's regime faces its gravest threat since the conflict began in 2011. — Agencies