STORY: On-site in Syria: Government forces halt rebel advance, regain territory in key areas
SHOOTING TIME: Dec. 1, 2024
DATELINE: Dec. 2, 2024
LENGTH: 00:01:25
LOCATION: Damascus
CATEGORY: MILITARY

SHOTLIST: 
1. various of the destruction and Syrian army targeting the rebel-held area in Idlib
2. SOUNDBITE (English): HUMMAM SHEIKH ALI, Xinhua reporter
3. various of the Syrian army in the Hama countryside
4. various of Syrian army targeting the rebel-held area in Idlib
5. various of the destruction in Idlib
6. various of the Syrian army in the Hama countryside

STORYLINE:

SOUNDBITE (English): HUMMAM SHEIKH ALI, Xinhua reporter
"In a sudden and massive offensive, rebel-held forces have launched attacks in the western countryside of the northern province of Aleppo, swiftly advancing into government-controlled areas and taking over the entire city in a matter of hours.
They continued marching toward government-held territories in the northwestern province of Idlib, taking over a few areas that had been controlled by the government in that rebel-held territory.
Moreover, they managed to push further south, reaching the northern countryside of Hama. This unexpected progression marked one of the most significant shifts in territorial control in recent times. However, their rapid advance has been halted.
The Syrian army's robust defenses, coupled with intensive airstrikes against rebel positions, have successfully slowed down their momentum in Hama. Strategic countermeasures have prevented further incursions, stabilizing the front lines and regaining some lost ground. Here in Damascus, residents have been following these developments with deep concern.
The initial news of the rebels' swift advances sparked fear and uncertainty about what the coming days might hold. But today (Sunday)'s reports of the army's effective defenses have brought a palpable sense of relief to the city. While vigilance remains high, there's growing optimism that stability will prevail."
 Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Damascus.
(XHTV)