(MENAFN) Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has pledged to defeat the jihadists currently attacking northern Syria, emphasizing that his government will overcome these forces regardless of the intensity of their actions. His remarks came as the Syrian military prepared to defend Hama against advancing militants.

In a phone conversation with Emirati President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Assad reaffirmed Syria's commitment to safeguarding its stability and territorial integrity from all terrorist threats. He expressed confidence that with the support of allies, Syria would eliminate these terrorist groups.

The jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), previously known as Jabhat al-Nusra, and several allied militias launched an offensive on government-held areas in northern Syria, breaking the ceasefire established by Russia and Turkey in 2020. By Friday, HTS had entered Aleppo, a city under Syrian government control since 2016.

The Syrian General Command reported that the attack involved foreign militants, heavy weaponry, and drones, resulting in the deaths of several Syrian soldiers. Despite this, Syrian forces managed to prevent the complete loss of Aleppo and began withdrawing to prepare a counteroffensive. Unconfirmed reports suggest that Syrian forces are now moving toward Hama in anticipation of the next phase of combat.

As clashes on the outskirts of Hama continue, Turkish media report that Iranian military advisors have arrived to assist in the defense efforts. Meanwhile, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed expressed support for Syria, reaffirming the UAE's commitment to helping Syria combat terrorism and maintain its sovereignty.

In addition to Syrian forces, Iran has vowed to retaliate against HTS for attacking its consulate in Aleppo, which resulted in the death of an Iranian general. Russia has also intensified its airstrikes on the militants, reportedly killing at least 600 jihadists since Thursday.

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