2016 Hama offensive#Ash Sha'tah

The operation began on 29 August, with two Jund al-Aqsa suicide car bombings against Syrian Army checkpoints near the village of al-Lataminah. Fierce fighting ensued, after which, the rebels managed to swiftly capture several villages. The local pro-government National Defense Forces militia were sent into a sudden and uncoordinated retreat, which lead to the rebels capturing the town of Halfaya.

Over the next 24 hours, the Syrian Air Force conducted 52 airstrikes, which killed at least 20 rebels, and soon after the Army managed to temporarily recapture one village, before they were pushed back once again. By the evening of 30 August, the rebels also managed to seize the town of Taybat al-Imam,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jund-al-aqsa-captures-key-village-northern-hama/|title=Jund Al-Aqsa captures key village in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=30 August 2016|access-date=31 August 2016|archive-date=18 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180918201120/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jund-al-aqsa-captures-key-village-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} as well as two other nearby villages.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-seize-two-villages-northern-hama/|title=Jihadist rebels seize two more villages in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=30 August 2016|access-date=31 August 2016|archive-date=18 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180918232324/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-seize-two-villages-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} The next day, the rebels managed to enter the town of Suran, but were subsequently pushed back after failing to capture the town's center. However, four hours later, a second rebel attack was launched which ultimately ended in the rebel capture of Suran.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jund-al-aqsa-captures-souran-northern-hama/|title=Jund Al-Aqsa captures Souran in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=31 August 2016|access-date=31 August 2016|archive-date=18 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180918212222/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jund-al-aqsa-captures-souran-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} Afterwards, the rebel forces led by Jund al-Aqsa began an attack on the Alawite village of Ma’an, claiming to already have captured a small barrier to the settlement's north and 4 checkpoints to the east.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jund-al-aqsa-begins-maan-offensive-northern-hama/|title=Jund Al-Aqsa begins Ma'an offensive in northern Hama|work=Al-Masdar News|date=1 September 2016|access-date=1 September 2016|archive-date=18 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180918195257/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jund-al-aqsa-begins-maan-offensive-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}

{{anchor|Maardis}}On 1 September, the rebels seized the town of Maardis, as well as a nearby village.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-maardes-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army captures Ma'ardes in northern Hama|first=Izat|last=Charkatli|date=1 September 2016|access-date=2 September 2016|archive-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180919030325/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-maardes-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-another-village-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army captures another village in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=1 September 2016|access-date=2 September 2016|archive-date=3 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190203205224/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-another-village-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} During their advances at Maardis, the rebels had seized a missile base that was being prepared by Russian forces for use.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/50122/|title=Jund al-Aqsa and the factions control the first line of defense of Qamhana and Missile Battalion near Maardis in Hama's countryside • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=1 September 2016}} Over the next four days, several unsuccessful Army counter-attacks were conducted in an attempt to recapture the town.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armed-forces-launch-counter-offensive-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Armed Forces launch counter-offensive in northern Hama|work=Al-Masdar News|author=Leith Fadel|date=2 September 2016|access-date=2 September 2016|archive-date=2 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190202214653/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armed-forces-launch-counter-offensive-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/36073/Jund_Al_Aqsa_Fighters_Defeat_A_Syrian_Regime_Offensive_Over_Ma%E2%80%99ardes_Northern_Hama|title=Jund Al-Aqsa Fighters Defeat A Syrian Regime Offensive Over Ma'ardes Northern Hama|work=Qasion News|date=2 September 2016|access-date=2 September 2016|archive-date=19 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019185241/http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/36073/Jund_Al_Aqsa_Fighters_Defeat_A_Syrian_Regime_Offensive_Over_Ma%E2%80%99ardes_Northern_Hama|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-counterattack-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army launches counterattack in northern Hama|first=Izat|last=Charkatli|date=3 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 September 2016|archive-date=18 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180918232615/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-counterattack-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=50194|title=Violent clashes at the outskirts of Maardis town and the regime forces are desperately attempting to regain control of it|date=3 September 2016|publisher=SOHR|access-date=3 September 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/36305/Jund_Al_Aqsa_Foil_A_Regime_Offensive_Over_Ma%E2%80%99ardes_%E2%80%A6_The_Latter_Bombard_Zuwar_With_Barrel_Bombs|title=Jund Al-Aqsa Foil A Regime Offensive Over Ma'ardes … The Latter Bombard Zuwar With Barrel Bombs|date=5 September 2016|publisher=Qasion News|access-date=5 September 2016|archive-date=19 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019185349/http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/36305/Jund_Al_Aqsa_Foil_A_Regime_Offensive_Over_Ma%E2%80%99ardes_%E2%80%A6_The_Latter_Bombard_Zuwar_With_Barrel_Bombs|url-status=dead}} At the same time elsewhere, rebel attacks on the villages of Ma’an,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-mourn-losses-failed-assault-northern-hama-town/|title=Jihadist rebels mourn their losses after failed assault on northern Hama town|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=1 September 2016|access-date=2 September 2016|archive-date=15 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915070043/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-mourn-losses-failed-assault-northern-hama-town/|url-status=dead}} Kawkab and Jubbayn, were repelled by government troops.

On 2 September, a low-flying Aérospatiale Gazelle in the area was destroyed mid-air by a Jaish al-Izza BGM-71 TOW missile.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-hama-insurgents-destroy-syrian-helicopter-not-russian/|title=Video: Hama insurgents destroy Syrian helicopter, not Russian|first=Paul|last=Antonopoulos|date=2 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 September 2016|archive-date=6 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180706105508/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-hama-insurgents-destroy-syrian-helicopter-not-russian/|url-status=dead}} The next day, the Syrian Army temporarily recaptured Samam Hill,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-capture-saman-hill-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army capture Saman Hill in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=3 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 September 2016|archive-date=4 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180804135949/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-capture-saman-hill-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} before losing it again later in the day.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jund-al-aqsa-begins-counter-attack-northern-hama/|title=Jund Al-Aqsa begins counter-attack in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=3 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 September 2016|archive-date=6 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180706111021/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jund-al-aqsa-begins-counter-attack-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} Two days later, government forces captured two hills overlooking the town of Qamhana, and forced the rebels to retreat from the town's outskirts.

{{anchor|Btaysh}}On 6 September, the Syrian Army repelled rebel assaults on Ma’an and the neighboring Karah village. In the process, Syrian Army units recaptured the village of Btaysh.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-hama-repelling-jihadist-attack/|title=Syrian Army advances in Hama after repelling jihadist attack|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=6 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=9 September 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221122027/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-hama-repelling-jihadist-attack/|url-status=dead}} On 7 September, the Syrian Army and NDF units launched a new attack against Maardis and Taybat Al-Imam, clearing the area around Kawkab,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/exclusive-battle-footage-syrian-armys-advance-northern-hama/|title=Exclusive battle footage of the Syrian Army's advance in northern Hama|author=Leith Fadel|date=7 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221111943/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/exclusive-battle-footage-syrian-armys-advance-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} and recaptured three villages by 9 September.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-syrian-jets-pulverize-northern-hama/|title=Russian, Syrian jets pulverize northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=9 September 2016|access-date=9 September 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221015027/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-syrian-jets-pulverize-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}

On 11 September, following a suicide attack against Army positions, the rebels captured Kawkab.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-capture-key-town-north-hama/|title=Jihadists capture key town in north Hama|first=Izat|last=Charkatli|date=11 September 2016|access-date=26 September 2016|archive-date=21 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180721021526/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-capture-key-town-north-hama/|url-status=dead}} On 13–14 September, rebel forces launched several attacks near Maardis and Ma'an and took control of a number of checkpoints, though their assaults on the towns themselves were reportedly repelled by the government.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=50639|title=Clashes breakout in Hama countryside|date=14 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=15 September 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-foils-jihadist-assault-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army foils jihadist assault in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=14 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=14 September 2016|archive-date=21 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180721050553/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-foils-jihadist-assault-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-jihadists-clash-northern-hama/|title=[Video] Syrian Army, jihadists clash in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=14 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=14 September 2016|archive-date=21 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180721020029/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-jihadists-clash-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}

As of 15 September, following the gains made in the previous two weeks, the rebels were preparing to start the second phase of their offensive to reach Hama city.{{cite web|url=https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/NewsReports/567353-rebels-preparing-advance-on-hama-reports|title=Rebels preparing advance on Hama: reports|access-date=26 September 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221000650/https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/NewsReports/567353-rebels-preparing-advance-on-hama-reports|url-status=dead}} At the same time, government forces were mobilizing for a counter-attack to regain all territory they had lost.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-prepares-large-scale-offensive-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army prepares for large-scale offensive in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=15 September 2016|access-date=26 September 2016|archive-date=16 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160916202711/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-prepares-large-scale-offensive-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-reinforcements-pour-northern-hama-2/|title=More Syrian Army reinforcements pour into northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=15 September 2016|access-date=26 September 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221060815/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-reinforcements-pour-northern-hama-2/|url-status=dead}}

The Army launched its counter-attack on 21 September, and advanced, capturing a hilltop and several farms on the eastern edge of Maardis. The rebels claimed to had destroyed four Army tanks during the fighting{{cite web|url=http://news.trust.org/item/20160921113018-q59no/|title=Syrian government forces launch attack in Syria's Hama|access-date=26 September 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-offensive-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army launches offensive in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=21 September 2016|access-date=26 September 2016|archive-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180919031838/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-offensive-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} and that they captured and executed 20 soldiers. The next day, the military seized several farms near Maardis.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-northern-hama-amid-fierce-jihadist-resistance/|title=Syrian Army advances in northern Hama amid fierce jihadist resistance|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=22 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=22 September 2016|archive-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180919031838/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-northern-hama-amid-fierce-jihadist-resistance/|url-status=dead}} However, on 23 September, rebel forces reversed all government gains during a counter-attack,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jund-al-aqsa-rolls-back-syrian-army-gains-northern-hama/|title=Jund Al-Aqsa rolls back Syrian Army gains in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=23 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=23 September 2016|archive-date=18 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180918234134/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jund-al-aqsa-rolls-back-syrian-army-gains-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} while there were conflicting reports on who controlled the village of Iskandariah.{{cite web|url=https://syria.liveuamap.com/en/2016/21-september-north-hama-rebels-took-back-full-control-of|title=North Hama: Rebels took back full control of Iskandariah after failed govt counter-offensive|access-date=26 September 2016}} On the same day, Russian warplanes bombed a rebel headquarters in cave in Taybat al-Imam, killing 22 rebel fighters from the Free Idlib Army.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/51093/|title=Warplanes target a "cave" headquarters of a rebel faction, 22 fighters killed near Qamhana in Hama's countryside • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=23 September 2016}}

On 24 September, the rebels captured Ma’an and al-Kabariyyah after a short battle.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/51108/|title=Jund al-Aqsa and factions advance and control Maan and al-Kabariyyah in the northeastern countryside of Hama • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=24 September 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-capture-alawite-village-northern-hama/|title=Jihadist rebels capture Alawite village in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=24 September 2016|access-date=26 September 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221032105/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-capture-alawite-village-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} The Syrian Army subsequently launched a small-scale counter-attack, reentering al-Kabariyyah.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army advances in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=25 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=25 September 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221040534/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}

On 27 September, the rebels once again advanced and captured six more villages.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-seize-two-villages-northern-hama-2/|title=Jihadist rebels seize two villages in northern Hama|publisher=Al-Masdar News|author=Leith Fadel|date=29 September 2016|access-date=29 September 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221050636/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-seize-two-villages-northern-hama-2/|url-status=dead}} On 28 September, according to the Syrian Army, Jund al-Aqsa used chemical weapons against pro-government defenders as the group attacked and captured Karah.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebels-gas-syrian-army-northern-hama/|title=Rebels gas the Syrian Army in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=28 September 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=29 September 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221021840/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebels-gas-syrian-army-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} In response to the rebel's advances, several pro-government units were sent as reinforcements to Hama province{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/tiger-forces-redeployed-east-aleppo-upcoming-offensive/|title=Tiger Forces redeployed to east Aleppo for upcoming offensive|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=27 September 2016|access-date=12 October 2016|archive-date=27 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160927045444/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/tiger-forces-redeployed-east-aleppo-upcoming-offensive/|url-status=dead}} and soon after government forces announced a new counter-offensive.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-begins-long-awaited-offensive-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army begins long-awaited offensive in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=28 September 2016|access-date=9 October 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221001714/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-begins-long-awaited-offensive-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} By 29 September, the rebels had seized 42 towns, villages and hills. Meanwhile, the rebel group Ahrar Darayya (originating from Darayya) merged with Jaysh al-Nasr and joined the battle in northern Hama.

On 6 October, it was reported that Fuad al-Salah, the prominent leader of the 'Leopard Militia', was killed in northern Hama.

{{anchor|Qarah}}{{anchor|Qahira Airfield}}{{anchor|Tell Al Aswad}}{{anchor|Qahira}}{{anchor|Ras Al-'Ayn}}{{anchor|Khafsin}}{{anchor|Ash Sha'tah}}{{anchor|Al-Junaynah}}On 8 October, taking advantage of rebel-infighting in the nearby Idlib province,{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-hama-idUSKCN1280B6|title=Syrian government forces seize rebel-held areas of Hama: monitors|date=8 October 2016|access-date=9 October 2016|newspaper=Reuters}} the Army launched a counter-attack and recaptured 10 villages (including Qarah), several hills,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-northern-hama-amid-jihadist-infighting/|title=Syrian Army advances in northern Hama amid jihadist infighting|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=9 October 2016|access-date=9 October 2016|archive-date=18 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180918230955/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-northern-hama-amid-jihadist-infighting/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/51932/|title=The regime forces continue to expand their control area and restore areas they lost since the end of August • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=8 October 2016}} two checkpoints and an airfield. The military continued to advance towards other nearby villages, specifically Ma'an, while a Russian air-strike directly hit a small convoy leaving Kawkab.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/TheInsideSourc/status/784734610265477123|title=The Inside Source on Twitter|access-date=9 October 2016}}

On 9 October, the Army recaptured two more villages (Ma'an and Kubbariyah),{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-hama-idUSKCN1290UR|title=Syrian government forces recapture more territory from rebels in Hama: monitor|date=9 October 2016|access-date=12 October 2016|newspaper=Reuters}} as well as parts of Kawkab.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/51990/|title=The regime forces continue advancing in the countryside of Hama and regain control of two villages in the area • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=9 October 2016}} Renewed fighting for Ma'an took place later that night,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-enters-key-village-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army enters key village in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=9 October 2016|access-date=12 October 2016|archive-date=11 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011165442/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-enters-key-village-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} and by the next day both villages were again rebel-held.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/52052/|title=Factions in the northeastern countryside of Hama re-advance and regain 2 important areas from the regime forces • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=10 October 2016}} Subsequently, government troops launched a new assault on Ma'an,{{cite web|url=http://en.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13950719000471|title=Farsnews|access-date=12 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161116213157/http://en.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13950719000471|archive-date=16 November 2016|url-status=dead}} and the town, along with nearby Kawkab, was heavily hit by air-strikes.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/785444714841411584|title=The Inside Source on Twitter|access-date=12 October 2016}} {{anchor|Kawkab}}{{anchor|Kubbariyah}}On 11 October, the Army seized Kawkab, as well as Kubbariyah once again.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/52100/|title=The regime forces re-advance and regain 2 areas in Hama countryside and shelling at Abtaa in the countryside of Daraa • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=11 October 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-key-village-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army captures key village in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=11 October 2016|access-date=12 October 2016|archive-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180919033351/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-key-village-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} A subsequent rebel counter-attack against Kawkab was repelled,{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/785953117372227585|title=The Inside Source on Twitter|access-date=12 October 2016}} with the rebels reportedly suffering heavy casualties.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/100-jihadist-rebels-killed-northern-hama-military/|title=Over 100 jihadist rebels killed in northern Hama: military|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=12 October 2016|access-date=12 October 2016|archive-date=19 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180919000914/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/100-jihadist-rebels-killed-northern-hama-military/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/52142/|title=24 fighters killed during clashes in Hama countryside • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=12 October 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/785963450153381888|title=The Inside Source on Twitter|access-date=12 October 2016}} Two days later, the Army captured Ma'an, as well as a nearby hill.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/52200/|title=Regime forces advance over rebels in eastern Hama • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=13 October 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-important-northern-hama-village/|title=Syrian Army captures important northern Hama village|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=13 October 2016|access-date=18 October 2016|archive-date=17 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161017232429/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-important-northern-hama-village/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/786484602676183040|title=The Inside Source on Twitter|access-date=18 October 2016}}

On 16 October, government forces seized Maardis and the village of Iskandariah.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/field-report-syria-army-recaptures-new-town-northern-hama-map-update/|title=Field report: Syria Army recaptures new town in northern Hama. Map Update|first=Zen|last=Adra|date=16 October 2016|access-date=18 October 2016|archive-date=18 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018143021/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/field-report-syria-army-recaptures-new-town-northern-hama-map-update/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Syria_Rebel_Obs/status/787679268860026880|title=Syrian Rebellion Obs on Twitter|access-date=18 October 2016}} The advance came after Army units managed to take control of the nearby Al-Abbadah hill the previous day{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-powerful-assault-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army launches powerful assault in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=16 October 2016|access-date=18 October 2016|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221045112/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-powerful-assault-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} and establish fire control over Maardis.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Syria_Hezb_Iran/status/787614790306893824|title=24 Resistance Axis on Twitter|access-date=18 October 2016}} The rebels subsequently launched a counter-attack before nightfall in an attempt to regain both Maardis and Iskandariah.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/latest-battle-map-northern-hama/|title=Latest battle map of northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=16 October 2016|access-date=18 October 2016|archive-date=18 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018101458/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/latest-battle-map-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/52503/|title=Violent clashes inside Maardis town after the regime forces' advancement, factions try to regain control of Alexandria • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=16 October 2016}} Government control of Maardis remained tenuous as fighting continued into the evening.{{cite web|url=http://bigstory.ap.org/article/a5b5d097a193499f900fb70a83cbdb3d/turkish-backed-syrian-opposition-captures-dabiq|title=Turkish-backed Syrian opposition captures Dabiq from IS|access-date=18 October 2016|archive-date=20 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161020153245/http://bigstory.ap.org/article/a5b5d097a193499f900fb70a83cbdb3d/turkish-backed-syrian-opposition-captures-dabiq|url-status=dead}} By the next day, the counter-attack had been repelled.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-holds-positions-northern-hama-jihadi-counteroffensive/|title=Syrian Army holds positions in northern Hama against jihadi counteroffensive|first=Zen|last=Adra|date=17 October 2016|access-date=18 October 2016|archive-date=18 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018214159/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-holds-positions-northern-hama-jihadi-counteroffensive/|url-status=dead}} During the fighting, the rebels managed to temporarily regain the town{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/52531/|title=Factions regain control of Maardis at the countryside of Hama amid hit-and-run clashes in the area • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=17 October 2016}} before losing it again.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/52594/|title=Tens were killed during the regime forces' regain control of Maardis and Alexandria • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=18 October 2016}}

Early on 18 October, an Army assault on Suran started,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-storms-strategic-village-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army storms strategic village in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=18 October 2016|access-date=18 October 2016|archive-date=18 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018221240/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-storms-strategic-village-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} with government troops managing to capture a base near the town.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-russian-regiment-base-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army captures Russian Regiment Base in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=18 October 2016|access-date=18 October 2016|archive-date=19 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019075454/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-russian-regiment-base-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/2016/10/18/%D9%82%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%B8%D8%A7%D9%85-%D8%AA%D8%B3%D8%AA%D9%85%D8%B1-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D9%85%D8%AD%D8%A7%D9%88%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AA%D9%82%D8%AF%D9%85-%D8%A8%D8%B9/|title=قوات النظام تستمر في محاولات التقدم بعد استعادتها لمعردس بريف حماة الشمالي|date=18 October 2016}} Government attempts to advance continued the next day.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/52734/|title=continued clashes in Hama countryside • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=19 October 2016}}

Early on 24 October, clashes took place around al-Remelia, near Salamiyah,{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=53093|title=Continued clashes in Salamia countryside|date=24 October 2016|publisher=SOHR|access-date=24 October 2016}} while the government prepared a new assault to regain Taybat al-Imam and Souran from the rebels.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-prepares-storm-key-towns-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army prepares to storm key towns in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=24 October 2016|publisher=a-Masdar News|access-date=24 October 2016|archive-date=24 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024223424/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-prepares-storm-key-towns-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} Later on, the Army advanced west of Ma'an and into the eastern outskirts of Souran, leading to fierce clashes with rebel defenders.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-points-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army captures new points in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=24 October 2016|publisher=a-Masdar News|access-date=24 October 2016|archive-date=25 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161025111139/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-points-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} The next day, the Army advanced west of Ma'an and recaptured Dharat Al-Fitas, Talat Khirbat and the Madajnah Checkpoint after pushing further towards the key town of Morek.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-points-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army captures new points in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=24 October 2016|access-date=5 November 2016|archive-date=25 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161025111139/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-points-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-capturesseveral-points-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army captures several points in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=25 October 2016|access-date=5 November 2016|archive-date=27 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161027131404/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-capturesseveral-points-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} Meanwhile, Jund al-Aqsa fighters executed Baha'a Al-Nizal, the leading commander of Jaysh al-Farouq in northern Hama, for unknown reasons. On 27 October, government forces advanced into Souran after capturing the nearby hilltop of Tal Al-Dour,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-powerful-assault-key-northern-hama-town/|title=Syrian Army launches powerful assault on key northern Hama town|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=27 October 2016|access-date=5 November 2016|archive-date=28 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161028140037/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-powerful-assault-key-northern-hama-town/|url-status=dead}} resulting in a fierce battle, which lasted until the rebels retreated, allowing the Army to secure the town completely.{{cite web|url=http://stepagency-sy.net/archives/113948|title=نظام الأسد يستولي على مدينة صوران و يواصل تقدمه شمال حماة - وكالة خطوة الإخبارية|access-date=5 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161028142200/http://stepagency-sy.net/archives/113948|archive-date=28 October 2016|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-secures-northern-hama-town-jihadist-counter-attack/|title=Syrian Army secures northern Hama town after jihadist counter-attack|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=27 October 2016|access-date=5 November 2016|archive-date=20 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020094401/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-secures-northern-hama-town-jihadist-counter-attack/|url-status=dead}} Meanwhile, clashes also took place in Taybat al-Imam.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=53332|title=The regime forces advance and control large parts of Soran town after hundreds of missiles and shells|date=27 October 2016|publisher=SOHR|access-date=24 October 2016}}

Between 28 October and 4 November, the military made advances north of Souran and Ma'an, capturing a checkpoint,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-points-northern-hama-latest-push/|title=Syrian Army captures new points in northern Hama after latest push|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=28 October 2016|access-date=5 November 2016|archive-date=30 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161030000006/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-points-northern-hama-latest-push/|url-status=dead}} the village Al-Buwaydah and several hills.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-points-northern-hama-map/|title=Syrian Army captures new points in northern Hama: map|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=2 November 2016|access-date=5 November 2016|archive-date=4 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161104191205/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-points-northern-hama-map/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/53811/|title=Regime forces target Soran town and other areas of Hama countryside • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=3 November 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-reaches-outskirts-strategic-northern-hama-town/|title=Syrian Army reaches outskirts of strategic northern Hama town|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=4 November 2016|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 November 2016|archive-date=4 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161104204145/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-reaches-outskirts-strategic-northern-hama-town/|url-status=dead}} On 4 November, the military continued its advance and took three checkpoints south of the rebel stronghold of Morek.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-northern-hama-rebel-aleppo-offensive-stagnates/|title=Syrian Army advances in northern Hama as rebel Aleppo offensive stagnates|first=Izat|last=Charkatli|date=4 November 2016|access-date=5 November 2016|archive-date=5 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161105032607/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-northern-hama-rebel-aleppo-offensive-stagnates/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/2016/11/05/%D9%82%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%B8%D8%A7%D9%85-%D8%AA%D8%AA%D9%85%D9%83%D9%86-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AA%D9%82%D8%AF%D9%85-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D9%86%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%B7-%D8%A8%D8%B1%D9%8A/|title=قوات النظام تتمكن من التقدم في نقاط بريف حماة الشمالي بعد عشرات الضربات الجوية والصاروخية - المرصد السوري لحقوق الإنسان}}

On 5 November, the military advanced at the village of Lehaya, south of Morek.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/53923/|title=Regime forces advance in Lehaya • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=5 November 2016}} Concurrently, the rebels launched a counterattack, capturing a checkpoint and Shalyut village to the north of Mhardeh.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/free-syrian-army-launches-surprise-offensive-northwest-hama/|title=Free Syrian Army launches surprise offensive in northwest Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=5 November 2016|access-date=9 November 2016|archive-date=7 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107005534/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/free-syrian-army-launches-surprise-offensive-northwest-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/53934/|title=Rebels advance over regime forces in Hama countryside • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=5 November 2016}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/53945/|title=More advances for rebels in Hama countryside amid targeting Maharda town with shells • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=5 November 2016}} However, subsequently, after the arrival of military reinforcements, government forces recaptured all lost territory.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/53964/|title=The regime forces advance again after heavy and violent shelling at the northern countryside of Hama • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=5 November 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/swift-counter-offensive-has-the-syrian-army-retake-all-lost-sites-in-northwest-hama/|title=Swift counter-offensive has the Syrian Army retake all lost sites in northwest Hama|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=5 November 2016|access-date=9 November 2016|archive-date=7 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107010641/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/swift-counter-offensive-has-the-syrian-army-retake-all-lost-sites-in-northwest-hama/|url-status=dead}} Still, on 6 November, the rebels managed to recapture two checkpoints and a hill south of Morek that they had lost earlier.{{Cite web|url=https://www.syriahr.com/en/53973/|title=Factions advance again at the northern countryside of Hama and clashes continue in the area • The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=6 November 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-launch-counter-offensive-northern-hama/|title=Islamist rebels launch counter-offensive in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=7 November 2016|access-date=9 November 2016|archive-date=8 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161108135042/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-launch-counter-offensive-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}

{{See also|2017 Hama offensive}}

On 24 November, the Syrian Army recaptured a small village and a hilltop near Ma'an from the rebels just a few days after they had lost them in a rebel attack.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-reverses-jihadist-gains-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army reverses jihadist gains in northern Hama|work=Al-Masdar News|date=25 November 2016|access-date=25 November 2016|archive-date=25 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161125111804/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-reverses-jihadist-gains-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}

On 21 March 2017, rebel groups led by Tahrir al-Sham launched another offensive in northern Hama, with the aim to recapture the towns of Suran and Maardis, which was recaptured by the SAA during the 2016 offensive. The offensive began with the launch of two suicide car-bombs.{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-hama-idUSKBN16S2DC|title=Syrian rebels launch attack near Hama|work=Reuters|date=21 March 2017}}

• 2017 Hama offensive
• 2015 Hama offensive
• Northwestern Syria offensive (October–November 2015)
• 2014 Hama offensive
• 2013 Hama offensive
• 2012 Hama offensive

{{Reflist|30em}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Hama offensive, 2016}}

Category:August 2016 in Syria

Category:Hama in the Syrian civil war

Category:Hama Governorate in the Syrian civil war

Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war in 2016

Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Jabhat Fateh al-Sham

Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Free Syrian Army

Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Syrian government

Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Hezbollah

Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Russia

Category:September 2016 in Syria