Syria's Rebel Gains in Hama

Rebels in Syria have gained significant ground by taking control of Hama, a major city that the government forces under President Bashar al-Assad have recently abandoned. This development follows a prior uprising in Aleppo, demonstrating the rebels' momentum as they free detainees from local prisons. Amid reports of government troop exhaustion and a lack of pay, these strategic retreats suggest a weakening of Assad's military position. The Syrian army's defense ministry cited concerns for civilian safety as a reason for their withdrawal, while opposition leaders reference historical grievances to rally support for their cause.