In a rapid and intense offensive, Syrian rebels have made significant advances, capturing key cities of Hama and Homs amidst a deteriorating situation for the Assad regime. Reports indicate that the rebels are closing in on Homs, the third-largest city in Syria, prompting thousands of civilians to flee. The capture of Hama, once an Assad stronghold, has dealt a severe blow to government forces, with the rebels now threatening the strategic city of Homs, potentially cutting off Damascus from the coast. As pressure mounts on the Assad government, both Israel and the US are closely monitoring the situation, which sees anti-regime forces claiming victory and gaining ground despite ongoing battles.