Assad’s army is retreating from the strategically important city of Hama

Syrian rebels have entered Hama, the country’s fourth-largest city under Assad regime control.

The Syrian army announced its withdrawal from Hama, which rebels began storming the day before, Reuters reported.

Bashar al-Assad’s army said it was redeploying outside the city to preserve civilian lives and prevent urban fighting.

Rebels said they had occupied neighborhoods in the northeast of the city and seized the central prison, releasing detainees.

This prison held 3,500 opposition prisoners and activists, and they are also fighting over an airfield.

Thus, a second major city is coming under the control of the Syrian rebels.

As you know, they took Aleppo last week. Next, the road to Homs is opening up for them.