Residents in Irbin, a northwest suburb of the Syrian capital Damascus, have been seen celebrating the progress of anti-regime rebel fighters as they move closer to the city center. In a video geolocated, residents were observed flooding the streets, lighting fireworks, and honking car horns. Irbin is just 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the center of Damascus. Earlier, the southern rebels — who launched their offensive just a day ago — said they had reached “the gates” of the capital.
The developments in Irbin mark a significant advancement for the rebel forces as they continue their push towards the heart of Damascus. The celebratory scenes captured in the video highlight the residents' support for the rebels' efforts to challenge the regime's control over the region.
With Irbin being in such close proximity to the capital, the progress of the anti-regime fighters is a cause for concern for the government forces. The rebels' swift movement towards Damascus indicates a shift in the dynamics of the conflict, raising questions about the regime's ability to maintain control over key areas.
The southern rebels' claim of reaching “the gates” of Damascus underscores the strategic importance of their recent offensive. As they draw nearer to the city center, the rebels are positioning themselves for potential further advances that could have significant implications for the ongoing conflict in Syria.
As the situation continues to unfold in Irbin and its surrounding areas, the residents' expressions of support for the rebel fighters serve as a reminder of the deep-rooted divisions within Syrian society. The scenes of celebration reflect the hopes and aspirations of those who seek a change in the current political landscape, while also signaling a potential escalation in the conflict as rebel forces make their presence felt closer to the heart of the capital.
