The city is strategically important to the government, which is also at risk of losing the capital, Damascus. 

​The city is strategically important to the government, which is also at risk of losing the capital, Damascus.  

South Korea’s former defense minister, Kim Yong-hyun, was arrested Sunday for his alleged role in President Yoon Suk Yeol’s short-lived martial law declaration. Kim, who resigned Wednesday, reportedly suggested the measure to Yoon. Despite surviving an impeachment vote, Yoon faces pressure to resign. Prosecutors and national police are investigating treason allegations against Yoon, Kim, and other officials.

Syrian rebels seize Homs and advance on Damascus, jeopardizing Assad’s rule. HTS, a designated terrorist group, leads the offensive as Hezbollah withdraws forces. Intense gunfire erupts in Damascus amid celebrations in Homs. International diplomacy calls for an end to hostilities and a political solution.