The Insurgency's Offensive in North Hama and the Town of Qamhana: Interview with a Local

As the insurgents led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham stormed through Idlib province, they are now advancing in north Hama countryside and are clearly attempting to move on Hama city, which has remained under Syrian government control since 2011 and was the site of a famous uprising in 1982. Within the north Hama area are towns that have stood by the government throughout the war. Two of these towns (al-Suqaylabiya and Muhrada) are Christian. But the town of Qamhana (also spelled Qomhane), which is located just north of Hama city, is Sunni, although a very small minority have converted to Shi'a Islam. Qamhana has now become a direct frontline town.

Whatever one's views of the war in Syria, it should be recognised that these towns' populations generally just do not want the insurgents taking over. This is part of the dynamics of a civil war, and I believe outsiders in particular should show understanding.

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