Hama offensive (March–April 2017)#Khattab
{{For|other battles in this location|Battle of Hama (disambiguation)}}
{{Short description|Military offensive}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2017}}
{{Infobox military conflict
| conflict = Hama offensive (March–April 2017)
| width =
| partof = the Syrian Civil War and the Russian military intervention in the Syrian Civil War
| image = 2017 Hama Offensive (Western Hama Governorate).svg
| image_size = 300px
| caption = Map of the offensive actions, as of 21 April 2017
| date = 21 March – 28 April 2017
({{Age in months, weeks and days|month1=3|day1=21|year1=2017|month2=4|day2=28|year2=2017}})
| place = Northern Hama Governorate, Syria
| result =
| status = Syrian Army and allies victory
- The rebels captured about 40 positions, including at least 11 villages and towns,{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2017/Mar-24/398936-syrian-army-prepares-counterattack-ahead-of-talks.ashx|title=Syrian army prepares counterattack ahead of talks|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon |date=24 March 2017}} coming within 3 km of Hama city
- The Syrian Army recaptured all lost territory,{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=64045|title=With an Air and missile cover… the regime forces regain control of more than 90% of the areas lost in favor of factions within 15 days|date=3 April 2017 |access-date=3 April 2017}} as well as ones lost in the previous offensive{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=65294|title=The rebel and Islamic factions retreat in the northern countryside of Hama and withdraw of more areas, pace of shelling and clashes decrease|date=23 April 2017 }} including the cities of Taybat al-Imam and Halfaya{{Cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-hezbollah-capture-key-town-northern-hama/|title=Breaking: Syrian Army, Hezbollah capture key town in northern Hama|publisher=Al-Masdar News|author=Leith Fadel|date=23 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=23 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170423154553/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-hezbollah-capture-key-town-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}
| combatants_header =
| combatant1 = Eastern front:
{{flagicon image|InfoboxHTS.svg}} Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}} Free Syrian Army
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Turkistan Islamic Party in Syria.svg}} Turkistan Islamic Party in Syria{{cite web|url=http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2017/03/analysis-insurgents-launch-major-offensive-against-assad-regime-in-hama-province.php|title=Analysis: Insurgents launch major offensive against Assad regime in Hama province|author=Thomas Joscelyn|publisher=Long War Journal|date=24 March 2017|access-date=25 March 2017}}
{{flagicon image|Flag of Ajnad al-Sham.png}} Ajnad al-Sham
{{flagicon image|Infobox Ajnad al-Kavkaz flag.png}} Ajnad al-Kavkaz
{{flagicon image|Flag of Jihad.svg}} Katibat al Ghuraba al Turkistan{{cite web|url=https://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2018/01/new-uighur-jihadist-group-emerges-in-syria.php |title=New Uighur jihadist group emerges in Syria |author=Caleb Weiss |work=Long War Journal |date=18 January 2018 |access-date=19 January 2018}}
----
Western front:
{{flagicon image|Flag of Ahrar ash-Sham.svg}} Ahrar al-Sham
{{Flagicon image|Flag of the Sham Legion.svg}} Sham Legion
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}} Free Syrian Army
| combatant2 = {{flagicon|Syria|1980}} Syrian Government
{{flag|Iran}}{{cite web|url=http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2017/03/irgc-members-killed-in-hama.php|title=IRGC members killed in Syria's Hama province|author=Amir Toumaj|work=Long War Journal|date=28 March 2017|access-date=29 March 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://en.eldorar.com/node/5261|title=Two Revolutionary Guards' leaders Killed in the countryside of #Hama|publisher=El-Dorar Al-Shamia|date=27 March 2017|access-date=27 March 2017}}{{Dead link|date=January 2020 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}
{{flag|Russia}}{{cite web|url=http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2017/03/assad-regime-bolstered-in-hama-province-by-iranian-controlled-iraqi-militia.php|title=Assad regime bolstered in Hama province by Iranian-controlled Iraqi militia|author=Amir Toumaj|work=Long War Journal|date=24 March 2017|access-date=25 March 2017}}
Allied militias:
{{flagicon image|InfoboxHez.PNG}} Hezbollah{{cite web|url=https://en.zamanalwsl.net/news/24652.html|title=Rebels kill at least 14 militants from Ba'ath Battalions in Hama|work=SYRIA NEWS | ZAMAN ALWSL |publisher=Zaman al-Wasl|date=26 March 2017|access-date=26 March 2017}}
{{Flagicon image|Shiism arabic blue.svg}} Iraqi Shia militias
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Ba'ath Party.svg}} Ba'ath Brigades
{{flagicon image|Liwa Zainebiyoun infobox flag.png}} Liwa Zainebiyoun{{cite news |title=التعرف على جثة امر لواء زينبيون الايراني الذي قتل في سوريا بنيران داعش الارهابي قبل عامين |trans-title=Identification of the body of the order of the Iranian Zainabiyoun Brigade, who was killed in Syria by ISIS terrorist fire two years ago |language=ar |work=IraqNewspaper.net |date=12 June 2019 |url=https://iraqnewspaper.net/ar/التعرف-جثة-امر-لواء-زينبيون-الايرا/}}
{{flagicon image|Liwa Fatemiyoun infobox flag.png}} Liwa Fatemiyoun{{cite web|url=http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2017/04/qassem-soleimani-reportedly-spotted-in-syrias-hama-province.php|title=Qassem Soleimani reportedly spotted in Syria's Hama province|author=Amir Toumaj|work=Long War Journal|date=2 April 2017|access-date=3 April 2017}}
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian Social Nationalist Party.svg}} SSNP
| combatant3 =
| commander1 = {{flagicon image|InfoboxHTS.svg}} Abu Mohammad al-Julani{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/pictures-al-qaeda-leader-masterminds-rebel-offensive-northern-hama/|title=In pictures: Al-Qaeda leader masterminds rebel offensive in northern Hama|first=Chris|last=Tomson|publisher=al-Masdar News|date=25 March 2017|access-date=25 March 2017|archive-date=27 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170327113002/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/pictures-al-qaeda-leader-masterminds-rebel-offensive-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Tahrir al-Sham military chief}})
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}}{{Flagicon image|Flag of the Jaysh al-Nasr.svg}} Capt. Abu Taleb al-Hasan{{cite web|url=http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/57634/The_Opposition_Groups_Start_A_Battle_North_Hama|title=The Opposition Groups Start A Battle North Hama|work=Qasioun News Agency|date=21 March 2017|access-date=22 March 2017|archive-date=19 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019071548/http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/57634/The_Opposition_Groups_Start_A_Battle_North_Hama|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Army of Victory commander}})
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}}{{Flagicon image|Flag of the Jaysh al-Nasr.svg}} Abu Mahmoud{{cite web|url=http://syriadirect.org/news/syrian-rebel-forces-launch-campaign-again-to-breach-hama-city-airport/|title=Syrian rebel forces launch campaign, again, to breach Hama city and airport|work=Syria:direct|date=22 March 2017|access-date=23 March 2017|archive-date=9 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171009225116/http://syriadirect.org/news/syrian-rebel-forces-launch-campaign-again-to-breach-hama-city-airport/|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Army of Victory commander}})
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}}{{flagicon image|Logo of the Army of Glory.png}} Col. Mustafa Bakeware{{cite web|url=http://baladi-news.com/ar/news/details/17285/قيادي_في_الحر_معركة_حماة_لن_تتوقف_حتى_تبلغ_مداها|title=A leading role in the "free": the battle of Hama will not stop until they reach a range|work=Baladi News|date=23 March 2017|access-date=26 March 2022|archive-date=19 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019065545/https://www.baladi-news.com/ar/news/details/17285/%D9%82%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AF%D9%8A_%D9%81%D9%8A_%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B1_%D9%85%D8%B9%D8%B1%D9%83%D8%A9_%D8%AD%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%A9_%D9%84%D9%86_%D8%AA%D8%AA%D9%88%D9%82%D9%81_%D8%AD%D8%AA%D9%89_%D8%AA%D8%A8%D9%84%D8%BA_%D9%85%D8%AF%D8%A7%D9%87%D8%A7|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Free Idlib Army senior commander}})
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}}{{Flagicon image|Logo of the Free Idlib Army.svg}} Col. Abdul Hamid Zakaria{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swMjbku1UJA|title=The word of Colonel Abdul Hamid Zakaria to one of the free Idlib army groups such as their starting to break into the northern countryside of Hama|work=Free Idib Army|date=23 March 2017}}
({{small|Free Idlib Army commander}})
Killed:
{{flagicon image|InfoboxHTS.svg}} Abu Ahed{{KIA}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/top-al-qaeda-commander-northern-hama-eliminated-syrian-army/|title=Top Al-Qaeda commander in northern Hama eliminated by Syrian Army|first=Leith|last=Fadel|publisher=al-Masdar News|date=24 March 2017|access-date=24 March 2017|archive-date=25 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170325025626/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/top-al-qaeda-commander-northern-hama-eliminated-syrian-army/|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Tahrir al-Sham commander}})
{{flagicon image|InfoboxHTS.svg}} Abu Al-Fateh{{KIA}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/40-insurgents-killed-islamist-attacks-northern-hama-take-disastrous-turn/|title=+40 insurgents killed as Islamist attacks in northern Hama take disastrous turn|first=Chris|last=Tomson|publisher=al-Masdar News|date=25 March 2017|access-date=26 March 2017|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221120521/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/40-insurgents-killed-islamist-attacks-northern-hama-take-disastrous-turn/|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Tahrir al-Sham commander}})
{{flagicon image|InfoboxHTS.svg}} Muhammad Al-Taayshi{{KIA}}
({{small|Tahrir al-Sham elite forces commander}})
{{flagicon image|Flag of Ajnad al-Sham.png}} Ali Ahmad Al-Abboud{{KIA}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/top-jihadist-commander-killed-northern-hama/|title=Top jihadist commander killed in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=24 April 2017|access-date=24 April 2017|archive-date=25 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170425123518/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/top-jihadist-commander-killed-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Ajnad al-Sham commander}})
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}}{{Flagicon image|Flag of the Jaysh al-Nasr.svg}} Abd Al-Hameed Al-Hudairy{{KIA}}
({{small|Army of Victory commander}})
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}}{{Flagicon image|Flag of the Jaysh al-Nasr.svg}} Jumaa Al-Khaled{{KIA}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-air-force-eradicates-two-free-syrian-army-commanders-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Air Force eradicates two Free Syrian Army commanders in northern Hama|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=26 April 2017|access-date=26 April 2017|archive-date=27 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427003118/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-air-force-eradicates-two-free-syrian-army-commanders-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Army of Glory commander}})
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}}{{flagicon image|Logo of the Army of Glory.png}} Saher Saleh{{KIA}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-kills-two-senior-rebel-commanders-hama/|title=Syrian Army kills two senior rebel commanders in Hama|first=Zen|last=Adra|work=al-Masdar News|date=21 April 2017|access-date=21 April 2017|archive-date=21 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170421112926/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-kills-two-senior-rebel-commanders-hama/|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Army of Glory senior commander}})
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}}{{flagicon image|Logo of the Army of Glory.png}} Mohammed Jallad{{KIA}}
({{small|Army of Glory senior commander}})
({{small|Free Idlib Army commander}})
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}}{{Flagicon image|Logo of the Free Idlib Army.svg}} Ameen al-Biori{{KIA}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-town-hama-exterminates-militant-leader/|title=Syrian Army captures new town in Hama, exterminates militant leader|author=Paul Antonopoulos|publisher=al-Masdar News|date=30 March 2017|access-date=30 March 2017|archive-date=31 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170331030430/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-town-hama-exterminates-militant-leader/|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Free Idlib Army top commander}})
{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}} Ahmad Al-Rammah abu Ibrahim{{KIA}}
({{small|Commander-in-chief of the Central Division}})
| commander2 = {{flagicon|Syria|1980}} Maj. Gen. Suheil al-Hassan{{cite web|url=http://en.farsnews.ir/newstext.aspx?nn=13960112000588|title=Unconfirmed Arab Media Reports: Iran's Major General Qassem Soleimani in Syria's Hama for Major Assault on Al-Qaeda|publisher=Fars News|date=1 April 2017|access-date=3 April 2017|archive-date=3 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170403182552/http://en.farsnews.ir/newstext.aspx?nn=13960112000588|url-status=dead}}
({{small|Tiger Forces chief commander}})
{{flagicon|Syria|1980}} Maj. Gen. Juma al-Jassim{{Cite web|url=https://en.zamanalwsl.net/news/24819.html|title=The shadow man of Assad regime who leads missile department - Profile|work=Zaman al-Wasl|date=1 April 2017}}
({{small|Syrian Army artillery and missile department director}})
{{flagicon image|Flag of Iran.svg}} Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani
(Quds Force chief commander)
Killed:
{{flagicon|Syria|1980}} Brig. Gen. Hossam Ahmed Asaad{{KIA}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.all4syria.info/Archive/397433|title=Killed Brigadier (Hossam Asaad) in the battles of Hama|work=All4Syria|date=23 March 2017}}
({{small|Syrian Army commander}})
{{flagicon|Syria|1980}} Gen. Haidar Saleh{{KIA}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/syriasource/rebels-advance-in-hama-countryside-as-regime-mobilizes-army-again-to-defend-city/|title=Rebels Advance in Hama Countryside as Regime Mobilizes Army Again to Defend City|work=Atlantic Council|date=28 April 2020}}
({{small|Syrian Army commander}})
{{flagicon|Syria|1980}} Unnamed Syrian Army lieutenant colonel{{KIA}}{{cite web|url=https://arabi21.com/story/993188/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AB%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D9%8A%D9%82%D8%AA%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%88%D9%86-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%AD%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%A9-%D9%88%D8%B3%D8%B7-%D8%A7%D9%86%D9%87%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A8%D9%82%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%B8%D8%A7%D9%85-%D8%B4|title=The rebels approaching the protectors of the system collapses amid forces (see)|work=Arabi 21|author=Iyad Makki|date=22 March 2017}}
{{flagicon|Iran}} Saeed Khajeh Salehani{{KIA}}
({{small|IRGC field commander}})
{{flagicon|Iran}} Hossein Moez-Qolami{{KIA}}
({{small|IRGC field commander}})
{{flagicon image|Liwa Zainebiyoun infobox flag.png}} Haj Haider{{KIA}}{{cite news |title=التعرف على جثة امر لواء زينبيون الايراني الذي قتل في سوريا بنيران داعش الارهابي قبل عامين |trans-title=Identification of the body of the order of the Iranian Zainabiyoun Brigade, who was killed in Syria by ISIS terrorist fire two years ago |language=ar |work=IraqNewspaper.net |date=12 June 2019 |url=https://iraqnewspaper.net/ar/التعرف-جثة-امر-لواء-زينبيون-الايرا/}}
({{small|Liwa Zainebiyoun commander}})
| commander3 =
| units1 = {{tree list}}
- {{flagicon image|InfoboxHTS.svg}} Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham
- Special forces
- Inghimasi unit
- Organization of Muhajiri of Ahl al-Sunnah in Iran{{Cite web|url=https://www.memri.org/jttm/first-pictures-sunni-foreign-fighters-movement-iran-affiliated-hts-syria|title=First Pictures Of The Sunni Foreign Fighters Movement In Iran Affiliated With The HTS In Syria|website=MEMRI}}
- {{flagicon|Syrian opposition}} Free Syrian Army
- {{flagicon image|Logo of the Army of Glory.png}} Army of Glory{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-jihadi-rebels-attack-syrian-army-syrias-hama-video/|title=Breaking: jihadi rebels attack Syrian Army in Syria's Hama [+Video]|work=al-Masdar News|author=Zen Adra|date=21 March 2017|access-date=22 March 2017|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221123631/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-jihadi-rebels-attack-syrian-army-syrias-hama-video/|url-status=dead}}
- {{Flagicon image|Flag of the Jaysh al-Nasr.svg}} Army of Victory
- {{Flagicon image|Logo of the Free Idlib Army.svg}} Free Idlib Army{{cite web|url=https://sg.news.yahoo.com/rebels-jihadists-begin-offensive-central-syria-234002892.html|title=Rebels, jihadists begin new offensive in central Syria|work=AFP News|date=22 March 2017}}
- Authenticity and Development Front
- Sons of the Levant
- Elite Islamic Battalions
- 23rd Division{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/QalaatAlMudiq/status/846086247672107015|title=Qalaat Al Mudiq on Twitter}}
- {{Flagicon image|Logo of Jaish al-Tahrir.jpg}} Elite Army
- Central Division
- Martyrs of Islam Brigade{{cite web|url=http://syrianobserver.com/EN/Features/32494|title=Displaced Fighters of Damascus Establish Positions in Idleb, Hama|publisher=Syrian Observer|date=21 March 2017|access-date=29 April 2017|archive-date=29 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329024809/http://syrianobserver.com/EN/Features/32494|url-status=dead}}
{{tree list/end}}
| units2 = {{tree list}}
- {{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian Arab Armed Forces (1980–2024).svg}} Syrian Armed Forces
- {{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian Arab Army.svg}} Syrian Army
- 11th Armored Division
- 47th Brigade{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-reinforcements-arrive-northern-hama-fend-off-jihadist-offensive/|title=Syrian Army reinforcements arrive to northern Hama to fend off jihadist offensive|work=al-Masdar News|author=Leith Fadel|date=22 March 2017|access-date=22 March 2017|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221122236/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-reinforcements-arrive-northern-hama-fend-off-jihadist-offensive/|url-status=dead}}
- 87th Brigade
- Tiger Forces{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/elite-tiger-forces-arrive-northern-hama-drive-back-al-qaeda/|title=Elite Tiger Forces arrive in northern Hama to drive back Al-Qaeda|work=al-Masdar News|author=Leith Fadel|date=23 March 2017|access-date=23 March 2017|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221174120/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/elite-tiger-forces-arrive-northern-hama-drive-back-al-qaeda/|url-status=dead}}
- 5th Corps{{cite web|url=http://damascus-insider.com/syrian-armys-5th-corps-deployed-hama-attack/|title=Syrian Army's 5th Corps Deployed To Hama For Counter-Attack Against HTS|date=26 March 2017|publisher=Damascus Insider|access-date=26 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170327080059/http://damascus-insider.com/syrian-armys-5th-corps-deployed-hama-attack/|archive-date=27 March 2017|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}
- Suqur al-Sahara{{Cite web |url=https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/858114843823550465 |title=Archived copy |access-date=29 April 2017 |archive-date=12 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112033742/https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/858114843823550465 |url-status=dead }}
- 16px Qalamoun Shield Forces{{cite web|url=http://syria.liveuamap.com/en/2017/14-april-progovernment-militia-qalamoun-shield-near-tayyibat|title=Pro-Government militia Qalamoun Shield near Tayyibat al-Imam frontline yesterday, northern Hama, Syria. |date=14 April 2017|access-date=29 April 2017}}
- {{flagicon image|InfoboxNDF.png}} National Defence Forces
- Local militias:{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-take-control-khattab-village-northern-hama/|title=Jihadist rebels take control of Khattab village in northern Hama|work=al-Masdar News|author=Leith Fadel|date=22 March 2017|access-date=22 March 2017|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221113827/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-take-control-khattab-village-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} Elite Soldiers of Sallah Assi, Leopards of Idlib, Tigers of Qamahana
- Golan Regiment{{Cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2017/04/syria-south-opposition-defection-army-israel.html|title=How these Syrians went from opposition fighters to pro-regime militiamen|author=Nour Samaha|publisher=Al-Monitor|date=3 April 2017|access-date=5 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170817035738/http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2017/04/syria-south-opposition-defection-army-israel.html|archive-date=17 August 2017|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}
- Assad ash-Sharq
- {{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian Air Force Intelligence Directorate.png}} Air Force Intelligence Directorate
- File:Christian cross.svg Guardians of the Dawn{{Cite web|url=https://www.enabbaladi.net/archives/139313 |title=ثلاثة اقتحامات دون السيطرة على قمحانة.. من يحرسها؟ |trans-title=Three incursions without control of Qamhana .. Who guarded? |work=Enab Baladi |language=ar |date=27 March 2017 |access-date=20 February 2018}}
- {{flagicon image|Syrian Air Force Flag.svg}} Syrian Air Force
- {{flagicon|Iran}} Iranian Armed Forces
- {{flagicon image|Flag of the Army of the Guardians of the Islamic Revolution.svg}} IRGC
- Basij
- Quds Force
- {{flagicon image|Banner of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation (obverse).svg}} Russian Armed Forces
- {{flagicon image|Flag of the Russian Air Force.svg}} Russian Air Force
- {{flagicon image|Flag of the Russian Federation Ground Forces.svg}} Russian Ground Forces{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/kremlin-confirms-death-russian-military-advisor-due-missile-attack-fsa-militia/|title=Kremlin confirms death of Russian military advisor due to missile attack from FSA militia|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=20 April 2017|work=Al-Masdar News|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=21 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170421094723/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/kremlin-confirms-death-russian-military-advisor-due-missile-attack-fsa-militia/|url-status=dead}}
- {{flagicon image|Герб ССО.png|border=no}} Special operations forces{{cite web|url=https://diyaruna.com/en_GB/articles/cnmi_di/features/2020/01/15/feature-01|title=Russian incursions in eastern Syria hinder fight against ISIS|publisher=www.diyaruna.com|date=15 June 2018}}
- {{flagicon image|InfoboxHez.PNG}} Syrian Hezbollah
- Al-Ghalibun
- {{Flagicon image|Shiism arabic blue.svg}} Iraqi Shia militias
- Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba
- LAAG
{{tree list/end}}
| units3 =
| strength1 = 6,000–10,000+ fighters{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-rebel-missile-takes-syrian-army-t-72-tank-rural-hama/|title=VIDEO: Rebel missile takes out Syrian Army T-55 tank in rural Hama|author=Chris Tomson|publisher=al-Masdar News|date=25 March 2017|access-date=26 March 2017|archive-date=26 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170326135901/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-rebel-missile-takes-syrian-army-t-72-tank-rural-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Abulzzadeen/status/844679409428824065|title=AbuIzzadeen on Twitter}}
- 600 TFSA fighters
| strength2 = 12,000-15,000+ soldiers including Allied militias and support elements{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-roll-amid-new-advances-northern-hama-map-update-pictures/|title=Syrian Army on the roll amid new advances in northern Hama (Map update + pictures)|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=20 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=21 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170421094728/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-roll-amid-new-advances-northern-hama-map-update-pictures/|url-status=dead}}
| strength3 =
| casualties1 = 250 killed and 750 wounded (per the rebels){{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/856278077961375744|title=Ivan Sidorenko on Twitter|access-date=24 April 2017|archive-date=24 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170424195402/https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/856278077961375744|url-status=dead}}
2,400 killed (per SAA){{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/200-militants-killed-3-failed-counter-attacks-northern-hama-russian-mod/|title=Over 200 militants killed during 3 failed counter-attacks in northern Hama: Russian MoD|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=11 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=12 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170412071012/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/200-militants-killed-3-failed-counter-attacks-northern-hama-russian-mod/|url-status=dead}}
| casualties2 = 259 reported killed, estimates up to 427{{cite web | last=Waters | first=Gregory | title=Fifteen Months of Death: Pro-Government Casualties of the Syrian Civil War | website=bellingcat | date=3 October 2018 | url=https://www.bellingcat.com/news/mena/2018/10/03/fifteen-months-death-pro-government-casualties-syrian-civil-war/ | access-date=29 October 2018}}64 killed (21–24 March),[https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/845237637120049154] 33 killed (24–25 March),[https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/846086724447092736] 31 killed (27–29 March),[http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=63743] 4 killed (31 March),[https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/847782984765784065] 3 killed (1 April),[http://www.orient-news.net/en/news_show/134418/0/Soleimani-shows-up-in-Hama-three-Iranians-announced-killed] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170403015303/http://www.orient-news.net/en/news_show/134418/0/Soleimani-shows-up-in-Hama-three-Iranians-announced-killed |date=3 April 2017 }} 4 killed (2 April),[http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=63998] 5 killed (4 April),[http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=64112] 21 killed (5 April),[http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=64285] 10+ killed (14 April),[https://en.zamanalwsl.net/news/25299.html] 16 killed (20 April),[http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=65108] 14 killed (27 April),[https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/857894839442067460] total of 205 reported killed 58+ foreign fighters killed(8 IRGC, 1 Russian){{cite web|url=http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2017/03/irgc-members-killed-in-hama.php|title=IRGC members killed in Syria's Hama province|publisher=Long War Journal|date=28 March 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://www.orient-news.net/en/news_show/134418/0/Soleimani-shows-up-in-Hama-three-Iranians-announced-killed|title=Soleimani shows up in Hama, three Iranians announced killed|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=3 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170403015303/http://www.orient-news.net/en/news_show/134418/0/Soleimani-shows-up-in-Hama-three-Iranians-announced-killed|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iranian-brigadier-general-killed-jihadist-militants-northern-hama-18-graphic/|title=Iranian brigadier general killed by jihadist militants in northern Hama (+18 graphic)|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=6 April 2017|access-date=8 April 2017|archive-date=7 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170407054417/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iranian-brigadier-general-killed-jihadist-militants-northern-hama-18-graphic/|url-status=dead}}
| casualties3 = Several hundreds killed and captured
| casualties4 = 30 civilians killed (pro-government claim)
40,000 civilians displaced{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/03/syria-40000-displaced-fighting-rages-hama-170328141437289.html|publisher=Al Jazeera|title=Syria: 40,000 displaced as fighting rages near Hama|date=28 March 2017}}
| notes =
| campaignbox = {{Campaignbox Syrian Civil War}}
}}
The Hama offensive (March–April 2017) was a military offensive launched by Syrian rebel groups led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) north of the city of Hama, as part of the Syrian Civil War. The offensive began on 21 March 2017, and the rebels aimed to recapture areas recaptured by the Syrian Armed Forces in the 2016 Hama offensive, as well as pushing into Hama city.{{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}}{{Cite web|url=http://syriadirect.org/news/syrian-rebel-forces-launch-campaign-again-to-breach-hama-city-airport/|title=Syrian rebel forces launch campaign, again, to breach Hama city and airport|access-date=23 March 2017|archive-date=9 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171009225116/http://syriadirect.org/news/syrian-rebel-forces-launch-campaign-again-to-breach-hama-city-airport/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://syriadirect.org/news/regime-forces-push-deeper-in-rebel-held-hama-backed-by-air-campaign-to-%E2%80%98finish-off-the-battle%E2%80%99/|title=Regime forces push deeper in rebel-held Hama backed by air campaign to 'finish off the battle'|website=Syria Direct|access-date=28 April 2017|archive-date=4 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170504102842/http://syriadirect.org/news/regime-forces-push-deeper-in-rebel-held-hama-backed-by-air-campaign-to-%E2%80%98finish-off-the-battle%E2%80%99/|url-status=dead}} The offensive was coordinated with rebel forces in Damascus' eastern suburbs, who launched their own operation in March 2017.{{cite web|url=https://www.truppendienst.com/themen/beitraege/artikel/der-syrische-buergerkrieg-update-19-04-2017/ |title=Der Syrische Bürgerkrieg - Update 19 04 2017 |work=Truppendienst.com (Austrian Armed Forces)|date=27 April 2017|access-date=18 March 2017 |language=de}} Though the rebels had some initial success, reaching the outskirts of Hama, these gains were stopped and eventually reversed by Syrian government counter-attacks, which by the end of April had recaptured all of the territory lost the previous month.
The offensive
=Tahrir al-Sham-led offensive south and east of Halfaya=
File:Rebel rocket artillery (Hama March 2017).png bombards government positions during the offensive.]]
On 21 March 2017, the rebel offensive code-named the "Battle of Tell Them to Work"{{cite web|url=http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/57654/The_Opposition_Groups_Seize_Soran_Town_North_Hama|title=The Opposition Groups Seize Soran Town North Hama|work=Qasioun News Agency|date=21 March 2017|access-date=22 March 2017|archive-date=23 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170323052808/http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/57654/The_Opposition_Groups_Seize_Soran_Town_North_Hama|url-status=dead}} was launched when two Tahrir al-Sham suicide bombers detonated two large car bombs against government positions in the town of Suran. Rebel forces led by Tahrir al-Sham then proceeded to attack Suran and the nearby villages of Maardis and Ma'an. The rebels captured the three villages by 22 March,{{Cite web|url=http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/57675/Syrian_opposition_continue_to_advance_in_Hama_and_seize_Maan|title=Syrian opposition continue to advance in Hama and seize "Maan"|work=Qasioun News Agency|date=22 March 2017|access-date=22 March 2017|archive-date=23 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170323052810/http://www.qasioun.net/en/news/show/57675/Syrian_opposition_continue_to_advance_in_Hama_and_seize_Maan|url-status=dead}} but this was denied by Hezbollah. The pro-opposition activist group the SOHR confirmed the rebel capture of Suran and parts of Maardis.{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/2017/03/22/هيئة-تحرير-الشام-تسيطر-على-صوران-وأجزا/|title=هيئة تحرير الشام تسيطر على صوران وأجزاء من معردس بتمهيد صاروخي من الفصائل المقاتلة في معركة "وقل اعملوا"|work=المرصد السوري لحقوق الإنسان }} The village of Khitab was also captured. According an SAA Tiger Force commander, there were about 6,000 HTS and allied militants involved in the offensive. In response to the rebel offensive, the Syrian Army sent reinforcements to the northern Hama frontline.[https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-idUSKBN16T13P Syrian army sends reinforcements to Hama province]. Reuters. 22 March 2017 The rebels aimed to capture Jabal Zayn al-Abidin and attack the Hama Military Airport, and reportedly advanced to within 7 kilometers of Hama city.
On 23 March, rebels captured the villages of Kawkab and Iskandariyah, stormed Maardis, and cut off the road linking Mahardah to Hama. The advances that day brought HTS-led forces within 5 kilometers of Hama city.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-qaeda-linked-rebels-threaten-hama-syrias-largest-christian-city/|title=Al-Qaeda linked rebels threaten Hama and Syria's largest Christian city|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=23 March 2017|access-date=23 March 2017|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221023504/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-qaeda-linked-rebels-threaten-hama-syrias-largest-christian-city/|url-status=dead}} Pro-government al-Masdar News claimed that the rebels carried out a massacre of Alawites in the village of al-Majdal, killing up to 30 of them.{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/map-update-syrian-rebels-massacre-civilians-press-major-offensive-syrias-hama/|title=Map Update: Syrian rebels massacre civilians as they press major offensive in Syria's Hama|last=Adra|first=Zen|date=22 March 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=23 March 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=23 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170323012326/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/map-update-syrian-rebels-massacre-civilians-press-major-offensive-syrias-hama/|url-status=dead}} According to an opposition source, Sham FM radio reported that this was denied by Mohaled Hazzouri, the governor of Hama.{{cite web|url=https://en.zamanalwsl.net/news/24530.html|title=Hama Governor refutes massacre reports in northern countryside|work=Zaman al-Wasl|date=23 March 2017}} Later that day, the Syrian Army recaptured Kawkab.{{cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/map-update-syrian-army-fights-back-northern-hama-restores-village-video/|title=Map Update: Syrian Army fights back in northern Hama, restores village [+Video]|last=Adra|first=Zen|date=23 March 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=23 March 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=18 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171018152140/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/map-update-syrian-army-fights-back-northern-hama-restores-village-video/|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=63357|title=Regime forces are desperate to repel the factions' attacks in the countryside of Hama and try with an intense fire cover to restore the areas they have lost|date=23 March 2017|work=SOHR|access-date=23 March 2017|language=en-US}} Al-Masdar News also reported that Khattab and one other village were recaptured amid an ongoing counter-offensive.{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-recaptures-two-villages-northern-hama-counter-offensive/|title=Syrian Army recaptures two villages in northern Hama counter-offensive|last=Fadel|first=Leith|date=23 March 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=23 March 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=24 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170324083856/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-recaptures-two-villages-northern-hama-counter-offensive/|url-status=dead}}
=Syrian Army repels Ahrar al-Sham-led offensive on Kernaz=
On 24 March, six rebel factions led by Ahrar al-Sham launched a separate offensive, code-named the "Echo of the Levant", on the northwestern front of Hama, with the goal to surround and capture Karnaz.{{cite web|url=https://www.enabbaladi.net/archives/138847|title="Ahrar al-Sham": we entered the battle of Hama Chamber of six factions|work=Enab Baladi|date=24 March 2017}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-open-new-front-northwestern-hama/|title=Jihadist rebels open new front in northwestern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=24 March 2017|access-date=25 March 2017|archive-date=26 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170326051550/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-open-new-front-northwestern-hama/|url-status=dead}} However, after managing to initially capture three villages, the rebels were forced to retreat due to heavy artillery shelling.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=63441|title=Calm in the clash fronts at the countryside of Hama broken by warplanes constant bombing|date=25 March 2017 |access-date=23 April 2017}}{{cite web|url=https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2017-03-25/syrian-army-pushing-back-insurgent-offensive-military-source-says|title=Syrian Army Pushing Back Insurgent Offensive, Military Source Says|access-date=23 April 2017}}
=Rebel attack on Qomhana and Syrian Army advance near Mahardah=
File:Army of Glory fighter launch a BGM-71 TOW missile.png fighter launches a BGM-71 TOW anti-tank missile at government positions during the offensive.]]
On 24 March, the rebels attacked the town of Qomhana, north of Hama.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-enter-strategic-town-northern-hama/|title=Jihadist rebels enter strategic town in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=24 March 2017|access-date=24 March 2017|archive-date=25 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170325025525/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-enter-strategic-town-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} Following an attack by three suicide car-bombers, the rebels managed to penetrate the town's defenses and heavy fighting ensued inside it.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/hama-battle-update-jihadi-rebels-storm-key-government-held-town/|title=Hama Battle Update: jihadi rebels storm key government-held town|first=Zen|last=Adra|date=24 March 2017|access-date=24 March 2017|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221000326/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/hama-battle-update-jihadi-rebels-storm-key-government-held-town/|url-status=dead}} However, the rebel attack was eventually repelled after the Army encircled the rebels inside Qomhana and cleared them out.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-qaeda-offensive-key-hama-town-ends-disastrous-fashion/|title=Al-Qaeda offensive at key Hama town ends in disastrous fashion|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=24 March 2017|access-date=24 March 2017|archive-date=24 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170324195209/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-qaeda-offensive-key-hama-town-ends-disastrous-fashion/|url-status=dead}} The same day, the Syrian Army recaptured the village of Shayzar, near Mahardah.{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/2017/03/24/قوات-النظام-تواصل-تنفيذ-هجمات-معاكسة-ع/|title=قوات النظام تواصل تنفيذ هجمات معاكسة على عدة محاور في ريف حماة وتتقدم على محاور فيها ومزيد من القصف يستهدف مناطق فيها|work=المرصد السوري لحقوق الإنسان }}{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=63414|title=The factions start a new round of intensive shelling on areas controlled by the regime of forces in a prelude of a new attack - #SOHR|date=24 March 2017 }}
On 25 March, on the Maarzaf front, fighters of the Army of Glory used a BGM-71 TOW missile against a group of Syrian Army soldiers, scoring a direct hit. They claimed to had killed over 150 soldiers; however, sources on the ground gave a count of between 14 and 20 casualties.{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-militants-claims-150-syrian-soldiers-single-tow-strike-rural-hama/|title=VIDEO: Militants claim 150 Syrian soldier casualties in single TOW strike in rural Hama|last=Antonopoulos|first=Paul|date=25 March 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=25 March 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=25 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170325163757/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-militants-claims-150-syrian-soldiers-single-tow-strike-rural-hama/|url-status=dead}} Elsewhere, the rebels started a new attack on Qomhana, which also involved a suicide bombing.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=63484|title=Violent explosions shake Qamhana and its surroundings and a new attack by the factions of Hama battle to storm the town|date=25 March 2017 |access-date=23 April 2017}} Kawkab was once again captured by the rebels for several hours,{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/846093294182510592|title=Ivan Sidorenko on Twitter}} before the Army retook it once again,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/hama-ejercito-sirio-recupera-kawkab-despues-de-arrasar-las-fuerzas-yihadistas/|language=es|title=Hama: Ejército sirio recupera Kawkab después de arrasar las fuerzas yihadistas|first=Inna|last=García|date=25 March 2017|access-date=29 April 2017|archive-date=15 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170515132623/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/hama-ejercito-sirio-recupera-kawkab-despues-de-arrasar-las-fuerzas-yihadistas/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://sana.sy/en/?p=102902|title=Updated-Army establishes control on Kawkab town in Hama, kills large number of terrorists across country – Syrian Arab News Agency|website=sana.sy|date=25 March 2017 }} as well as Tall al Abadi hill south of Maardes.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/suriye-ordusu-cihatci-gruplarin-hama-kuzeyindeki-saldirilarini-puskurttu/|title=Suriye Ordusu, cihatçı grupların Hama kuzeyindeki saldırılarını püskürttü|first=Eren|last=Dalkesen|date=25 March 2017|access-date=26 March 2017|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221042047/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/suriye-ordusu-cihatci-gruplarin-hama-kuzeyindeki-saldirilarini-puskurttu/|url-status=dead}}
On 26 March, after a new morning rebel attack was repelled on Qomhana's western flank,{{Cite web|url=http://baladi-news.com/en/news/details/17383/|title=Rebel Factions Advance On Hama Amidst Attack And Retreat Battles In Damascus - Baladi News|access-date=26 March 2017|archive-date=27 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170327080341/http://baladi-news.com/en/news/details/17383/|url-status=dead}} the HTS rebels withdrew their forces to the cemetery area outside the town. The Syrian Army then attacked the cemetery area, overrunning HTS positions that afternoon.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-overpowers-al-qaeda-rebels-key-northern-hama-town/|title=Syrian Army overpowers Al-Qaeda rebels at key northern Hama town|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=26 March 2017|access-date=26 March 2017|archive-date=21 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221003159/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-overpowers-al-qaeda-rebels-key-northern-hama-town/|url-status=dead}} Subsequently, the Army captured the nearby hilltop of Tal Al-Sammam and its three checkpoints. They then started preparing to enter Khitab, which was reportedly empty but still not safe due to the large presence of rebels around the village.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-seizes-territory-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army seizes more territory in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=26 March 2017|access-date=26 March 2017|archive-date=26 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170326181252/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-seizes-territory-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} In the evening, HTS-led forces launched another three-hour rebel assault on Qomhana. Despite the rebels initially managing to penetrate the Syrian Army's first defense line on the town's northern flank, Army reinforcements from the east and the west reportedly managed to besiege the rebel forces in Qomhana's north, killing a large number of them, and forcing the rest to retreat.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/dangerous-jihadist-offensive-key-hama-town-ends-dramatic-fashion/|title=Dangerous jihadist offensive at key Hama town ends in dramatic fashion|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=26 March 2017|access-date=26 March 2017|archive-date=26 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170326231038/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/dangerous-jihadist-offensive-key-hama-town-ends-dramatic-fashion/|url-status=dead}}
On 27 March, the Army recaptured a village south of Mahardah.{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/2017/03/27/قصف-جوي-متصاعد-يرافق-الاشتباكات-المتو/|title=قصف جوي متصاعد يرافق الاشتباكات المتواصلة على محاور بريف حماة}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-village-northern-hama-counter-offensive/|title=Syrian Army captures new village in northern Hama counter-offensive|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=27 March 2017|access-date=28 March 2017|archive-date=29 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329050142/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-new-village-northern-hama-counter-offensive/|url-status=dead}} The military also reportedly seized the Mahardah bridge, reaching the outskirts of the village of Arzeh.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-troops-liberate-mahardeh-bridge-roll-back-jihadist-gains-northern-hama/|title=Syrian troops liberate Mahardeh bridge, roll back jihadist gains in northern Hama|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=27 March 2017|access-date=28 March 2017|archive-date=28 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170328000505/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-troops-liberate-mahardeh-bridge-roll-back-jihadist-gains-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}
=Second Ahrar al-Sham-led attack repelled=
On 28 March, the rebels launched a new assault on two flanks north of Mahardah, capturing the Al-Qaramitah area. They also seized Tall Al-Sakhr hill,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/pictures-christian-town-hama-endangered-islamist-rebels-capture-nearby-area/|title=In pictures: Christian city in Hama endangered as Islamist rebels capture nearby area|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=28 March 2017|access-date=28 March 2017|archive-date=28 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170328191043/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/pictures-christian-town-hama-endangered-islamist-rebels-capture-nearby-area/|url-status=dead}} Al-Sakhir village and the nearby grain silos near Kernaz.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/ahrar-al-sham-seizes-village-grain-silos-northern-hama-video/|title=Ahrar Al-Sham seizes village, grain silos in northern Hama: video|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=28 March 2017|access-date=28 March 2017|archive-date=28 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170328191653/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/ahrar-al-sham-seizes-village-grain-silos-northern-hama-video/|url-status=dead}} However, the attack was eventually repelled later in the day, as the Syrian Army regained all the lost positions at Al-Qaramitah and Sakhir.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-walk-syrian-army-ambush-northern-hama/|title=Jihadist rebels walk into a Syrian Army ambush in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=28 March 2017|access-date=28 March 2017|archive-date=28 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170328201240/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-walk-syrian-army-ambush-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} Three Syrian Army tanks were destroyed or damaged by BGM-71 TOW anti-tank missiles during the day's fighting.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-three-syrian-army-tanks-set-fire-islamist-anti-tank-missiles-rural-hama/|title=VIDEO: Three Syrian Army tanks set on fire by Islamist anti-tank missiles in rural Hama|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=29 March 2017|access-date=28 March 2017|archive-date=29 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329141208/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-three-syrian-army-tanks-set-fire-islamist-anti-tank-missiles-rural-hama/|url-status=dead}}
=Syrian Army counterattack and rebels pushed back=
On 29 March, HTS-led forces captured Tal Shihah hill, south of Khitab, bringing HTS-led jihadists within 3 kilometers of Hama city.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-advance-within-3km-hama-city/|title=Jihadist rebels advance within 3km of Hama City|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=29 March 2017|access-date=29 March 2017|archive-date=29 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329114301/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-advance-within-3km-hama-city/|url-status=dead}} Concurrently, the Army counter-attacked north of Qomhana and recaptured several positions, including Saman hill.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-secures-town-qomhana-northern-hama-town-seizing-several-points/|title=Syrian Army secures town of Qomhana in northern Hama town after seizing several points|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=29 March 2017|access-date=29 March 2017|archive-date=30 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170330010627/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-secures-town-qomhana-northern-hama-town-seizing-several-points/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=https://syria.liveuamap.com/en/2017/29-march-hama-battle-backed-by-russian-firepower-progovernment|title=Hama Battle: backed by Russia|n firepower pro-Government forces are counter-attacking on several fronts and slowly regaining ground.|website=Map of Syrian Civil War - Syria news and incidents today - syria.liveuamap.com}} Later in the day, the military also recaptured Tal Shihah.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-overruns-jihadi-groups-northern-hama/|title=Breaking: Syrian Army overruns jihadi groups in northern Hama|first=Zen|last=Adra|date=29 March 2017|access-date=29 March 2017|archive-date=29 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329170238/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-overruns-jihadi-groups-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=https://syria.liveuamap.com/en/2017/29-march-saa-recaptured-sheyha-hill-in-northern-hama--|title=SAA recaptured Sheyha hill in Northern Hama|website=Map of Syrian Civil War - Syria news and incidents today - syria.liveuamap.com}} Subsequently, the Syrian army captured the strategic hilltop of Tal Bizam, north of Suran.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-regains-lead-northern-hama-recaptures-another-hilltop/|title=In Video: Syrian Army regains the lead in northern Hama, recaptures another hilltop|first=Zen|last=Adra|date=29 March 2017|access-date=29 March 2017|archive-date=29 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329175451/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-regains-lead-northern-hama-recaptures-another-hilltop/|url-status=dead}} The next day, the Syrian Army captured six locations,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/map-update-syrian-army-restores-several-villages-northern-hama/|title=Map Update: Syrian Army restores several villages in northern Hama|first=Zen|last=Adra|date=30 March 2017|access-date=30 March 2017|archive-date=30 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170330221351/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/map-update-syrian-army-restores-several-villages-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} including the town of Arzah and Point 50, to the south west of Qomhana and south of Khitab.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=63768|title=The regime forces with support by the gunmen loyal to them advance and regain control of areas they lost north of Hama|date=30 March 2017 |access-date=23 April 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=63813|title=The regime forces continue advancing in the northern countryside of Hama and regain more villages and sites in the area|date=30 March 2017 |access-date=23 April 2017}} Meanwhile, another rebel attack on the northwestern front was repelled.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/largest-jihadist-offensive-northern-hama-results-heavy-losses-little-gains/|title=Largest jihadist offensive in northern Hama results in heavy losses, little gains|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=30 March 2017|access-date=30 March 2017|archive-date=30 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170330124807/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/largest-jihadist-offensive-northern-hama-results-heavy-losses-little-gains/|url-status=dead}} On 30 March, a government airstrike hit al-Lataminah. More than 70 people in the area were then exposed to an unidentified chemical agent and showed symptoms of nausea, agitation, foaming, muscle spasm, and miosis (constriction of the pupil of the eye); cardiac arrest occurred in two of the victims{{cite web|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/syrian-arab-republic/breaking-chemical-weapons-attack-latamneh-hama-injures-70|title=Breaking: Chemical Weapons Attack in Latamneh, Hama Injures 70|work=Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations|date=30 March 2017}} and an orthopedic doctor died.{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-hama-idUSKBN1711O9|title=Warplanes strike near Syria's Hama as army counter-attacks |quote=Speaking to Reuters from Turkey, Abdallah Darwish, head of the health authority for rebel-held parts of Hama province, said air strikes in the south of Latamneh on Thursday morning had injured many people. "The bombardment had a substance that caused intense irritation, heavy foaming from the mouth, and constricting pupils", said Darwish, citing his medical staff on the ground. A chemical attack hit the same area on Saturday, killing an orthopedic doctor, Darwish added. |work=Reuters|date=30 March 2017}}
On 31 March, the Syrian army recaptured Khitab and five other villages along with several hills and checkpoints. They also reopened the Hama-Mhardheh highway and pushed back the rebels to positions 11 kilometers from Hama Military Airport.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armys-advance-reopens-strategic-road-northern-hama-map/|title=Syrian Army's advance reopens strategic road in northern Hama: map|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=31 March 2017|access-date=1 April 2017|archive-date=31 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170331210101/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armys-advance-reopens-strategic-road-northern-hama-map/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-deep-trouble-syrian-army-liberates-points-rural-hama/|title=Islamist rebels in deep trouble in rural Hama as Syrian Army liberates more points|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=31 March 2017|access-date=1 April 2017|archive-date=1 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170401060427/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-deep-trouble-syrian-army-liberates-points-rural-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=63874|title=With the end of the 11th day of Hama clashes… the regime forces advance and put the factions 11 kilometers north away of Hama airbase|date=31 March 2017 |access-date=23 April 2017}}
=Back-and-forth fighting and the Syrian Army reaches Suran=
On 3 April, the Syrian Army recaptured the town of Maardis, along with the nearby silos and hills. Subsequently, they shifted their assault and reclaimed the village of Iskanderiyah and Maardis bridge.{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-full-retreat-syrian-army-troops-seize-territory-northern-hama/|title=Jihadist rebels in full retreat as Syrian Army troops seize more territory in northern Hama|last=Fadel|first=Leith|date=3 April 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=3 April 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=3 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170403153256/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-full-retreat-syrian-army-troops-seize-territory-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} A government aircraft was reported to carry out a chlorine gas attack on Al-Habit, injuring dozens and killing two children.{{cite news|url=https://www.dailysabah.com/turkey/2017/04/08/turkish-ngo-urges-helping-hand-after-chemical-attack|title=Turkish NGO urges helping hand after chemical attack|publisher=Daily Sabah|date=8 April 2017}}{{cite web|title=Syrian regime continues to use chlorine gas in Idlib|publisher=Anadolu Agency|date=3 April 2017 |url=http://aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/syrian-regime-continues-to-use-chlorine-gas-in-idlib/787205|access-date=9 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170404031359/http://aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/syrian-regime-continues-to-use-chlorine-gas-in-idlib/787205|archive-date=4 April 2017}}{{cite web|url=https://en.zamanalwsl.net/news/24912.html|title=Regime helicopters drop two Chlorine barrels on Hubait town in Idlib|date=4 April 2017|publisher=Zaman Al Wasl}} The next day, the rebels counter-attacked against Maardis and recaptured it after more than nine hours of heavy fighting.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-jihadist-insurgents-overrun-government-held-town-northern-hama/|title=BREAKING: Jihadist insurgents overrun government-held town in northern Hama|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=4 April 2017|access-date=8 April 2017|archive-date=6 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406112725/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-jihadist-insurgents-overrun-government-held-town-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} The initial rebel assault involved three suicide car-bombers, according to pro-government sources.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-launch-counter-offensive-northern-hama/|title=Jihadist rebels launch counter-offensive in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=4 April 2017|access-date=8 April 2017|archive-date=6 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406022702/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-launch-counter-offensive-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} The town of Khan Shaykoun was reported to have been struck by an airstrike by government forces followed by massive civilian chemical poisoning.{{cite web |url= https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-39488539 |title= Syria conflict: 'Chemical attack' in Idlib kills dozens |publisher= BBC |date= 4 April 2017 |access-date= 22 June 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180606040007/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-39488539 |archive-date= 6 June 2018 |url-status= live }}{{cite news |date= 6 April 2017 |title= Witness of Syria chemical attack gives graphic account as death toll climbs |website= www.thenational.ae |url= http://www.thenational.ae/world/middle-east/witness-of-syria-chemical-attack-gives-graphic-account-as-death-toll-climbs |access-date= 10 April 2017 |quote= The warplane dropped three conventional explosive bombs – and a fourth that made little sound on impact but produced a cloud of smoke. }} The release of a toxic gas, which included sarin, or a similar substance,{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-39648503|title=Syria war: Sarin used in Khan Sheikhoun attack, OPCW says|date=2017-04-20|work=BBC News|access-date=2017-04-20|language=en-GB}} killed at least 89 people and injured more than 541, according to the opposition Idlib Health Directorate.{{Cite web |url=http://syriacivildefense.org/press-release/joint-statement-syria-civil-defence-and-health-directorate-idlib |title=A Joint Statement by the Syria Civil Defence and the Health Directorate in Idlib | Syria Civil Defence |access-date=17 December 2019 |archive-date=3 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180703133414/http://syriacivildefense.org/press-release/joint-statement-syria-civil-defence-and-health-directorate-idlib |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url= https://twitter.com/SyriaCivilDef/status/850323422894850048 |title= 4th joint report between SCD & Idleb health directorate in regards to Khan Shaykhun chemical attack. 89 killed (33kids & 18wmn), 541 injured|work= @syriancivildef |date= 7 April 2017}}{{Cite web|url=https://twitter.com/SyriaCivilDef/status/850323422894850048|title=4th joint report between SCD & Idleb health directorate in regards to Khan Shaykhun chemical attack. 89 killed (33kids & 18wmn), 541 injured|last=Helmets|first=White|date=2017-04-07|website=@SyriaCivilDef|language=en|access-date=2019-03-12}} The attack was the deadliest use of chemical weapons in the Syrian civil war since the Ghouta chemical attack in 2013.{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2017/04/04/Syria-toxic-gas-attack-kills-civilians-in-Idlib-province.html|title=Syria 'toxic gas' attack kills 100 in Idlib province|work=Al-Arabiya & AFP|date=4 April 2017}}
On 5 April, Maardis was once again contested,{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/InsideSourceInt/status/849531471627005952|title=The Inside Source on Twitter|access-date=8 April 2017}} although by the afternoon the rebels managed to push back government forces and retain control of the town.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-seize-maardes-village-northern-hama/|title=Jihadists seize Ma'ardes village in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=5 April 2017|access-date=8 April 2017|archive-date=6 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406022740/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-seize-maardes-village-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} Subsequently, a rebel suicide car-bomber attacked the government-held hill of Tall Abadah, 1,500 meters southeast of Maardis, reportedly immobilizing a tank.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-qaeda-suicide-bombing-rocks-syrian-army-hill-northern-hama-countryside/|title=Al-Qaeda suicide bombing rocks the Syrian Army at hill in northern Hama countryside|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=5 April 2017|access-date=8 April 2017|archive-date=6 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406084840/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-qaeda-suicide-bombing-rocks-syrian-army-hill-northern-hama-countryside/|url-status=dead}} At the same time, the Army captured a checkpoint near Halfaya and managed to penetrate the town from the west.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-northern-hama-intensifies-syrian-army-jihadists-trade-blows/|title=Battle for northern Hama intensifies as both Syrian Army and jihadists trade blows|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=5 April 2017|access-date=8 April 2017|archive-date=6 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406021432/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-northern-hama-intensifies-syrian-army-jihadists-trade-blows/|url-status=dead}} However, the rebels regained the lost ground at Halfaya later in the day, while also recapturing Iskandariyah.{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-regain-upper-hand-northern-hama-full-battlefield-report/|title=Islamist rebels regain the upper hand in northern Hama - full battlefield report|last=Tomson|first=Chris|date=6 April 2017|work=al-Masdar News|access-date=5 April 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=5 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170405225513/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-regain-upper-hand-northern-hama-full-battlefield-report/|url-status=dead}}
On 7 April, around noon, the rebels advanced and captured several positions south of Maardis.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-jihadist-rebels-seize-numerous-sites-syrian-army-northern-hama/|title=VIDEO: Jihadist rebels seize numerous sites from the Syrian Army in northern Hama|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=7 April 2017|access-date=8 April 2017|archive-date=9 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170409021224/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-jihadist-rebels-seize-numerous-sites-syrian-army-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} However, this turned out to be a trap set up by the Army with dozens of rebel reported killed. After several hours of clashes, the military recaptured the positions they had lost, in addition to Iskandariyah which they attacked from two flanks.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-retakes-lost-turf-northern-hama-becomes-jihadist-death-trap/|title=Syrian Army retakes lost turf as northern Hama becomes jihadist deathtrap|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=8 April 2017|access-date=8 April 2017|archive-date=9 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170409021146/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-retakes-lost-turf-northern-hama-becomes-jihadist-death-trap/|url-status=dead}} Three days later, government troops recaptured Maardis as well.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-takes-control-maardes-village-amid-new-push-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army takes control of Ma'ardes village amid new push in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=10 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=15 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170415143910/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-takes-control-maardes-village-amid-new-push-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=64583|title=The regime forces after tens of missiles and raids regain Maardis village|date=10 April 2017 |access-date=23 April 2017}} Fighting continued on 11 April, as the Army seized the “Russian Regiment” base, south of Suran.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-makes-fresh-gains-north-hama/|title=Breaking: Syrian Army makes fresh gains in North Hama|first=Zen|last=Adra|date=11 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=17 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170417021952/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-makes-fresh-gains-north-hama/|url-status=dead}}
=All rebel gains reversed=
On 14 April, the military launched an attack toward Halfaya, capturing several checkpoints south of the town. At the same time, the Army shelled rebel positions around Suran and Taybat al-Imam.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-begins-storming-large-town-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army begins storming large town in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=14 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=16 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170416042806/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-begins-storming-large-town-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} However, despite these initial advances, the Army was eventually pushed back from Halfaya after suffering heavy casualties. Two tanks were also captured by the rebels.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-foil-syrian-army-offensive-key-northern-hama-town-2-tanks-captured/|title=Jihadist rebels foil Syrian Army offensive at key northern Hama town, 2 tanks captured|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=14 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=16 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170416044812/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-foil-syrian-army-offensive-key-northern-hama-town-2-tanks-captured/|url-status=dead}}
On 16 April, following over 40 air-strikes against rebel supply lines the previous night,{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-airstrikes-illuminate-night-sky-idlib/|title=Russian airstrikes illuminate the night sky over Idlib|work=Al-Masdar News|date=16 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=17 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170417073842/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-airstrikes-illuminate-night-sky-idlib/|url-status=dead}} the Syrian Army recaptured Suran after 10 hours of intense fighting, thus reversing all rebel gains during the offensive.{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-pro-government-forces-liberate-strategic-town-northern-hama-map-update/|title=BREAKING: Pro-government forces liberate strategic town in northern Hama (Map Update)|last=Illingworth|first=Andrew|date=16 April 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=16 April 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=17 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170417070850/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-pro-government-forces-liberate-strategic-town-northern-hama-map-update/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=64905|title=The regime forces regain Tal Bzam and advance in the vicinity of Soran in the northern countryside of Hama|date=16 April 2017 |access-date=23 April 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-hama-idUSKBN17I0P9|title=Syrian army regains key town in north Hama province|date=16 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|newspaper=Reuters}} Several hours later, the rebels fired more than 40 Grad rockets towards Hama Military Airport, destroying a MIG-23 fighter jet and several large ammo depots.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/free-syrian-army-destroys-military-aircraft-northern-hama/|title=Free Syrian Army destroys military aircraft in northern Hama|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=16 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=27 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427001924/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/free-syrian-army-destroys-military-aircraft-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}
=Army push into rebel territory; Taybat al-Imam and Halfaya captured=
On 17 April, the military launched an attack on Taybat al-Imam{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=64970|title=Violent attack by the regime forces with a fire cover to restore Tayyibat al-Imam town in northern countryside of Hama|date=17 April 2017 |access-date=23 April 2017}} and reportedly captured a checkpoint at the eastern entrance to the town.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-storms-taibat-al-imam-town-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army storms Taibat Al-Imam town in northern Hama|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=17 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=18 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170418082456/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-storms-taibat-al-imam-town-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/government-forces-offensive-central-hama-province-46839384|title=Government forces on the offensive in central Hama province|website=ABC News |access-date=23 April 2017}}
On 20 April, heavy fighting erupted in the areas of Taybat al-Imam and Halfaya, as government forces tried to capture both towns. Over the previous 48 hours, more than 400 air-strikes were conducted in the northern Hama countryside.{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=65108|title=37 fighters and members at least of the factions and the regime forces were killed in the violent clashes in the northern countryside of Hama.|date=20 April 2017 }} Eventually, government troops managed to capture Taybat al-Imam{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/mideast-crisis-syria-hama-idUSKBN17M1T9|title=Syrian army advances along vital highway in rebel-held Hama province|date=20 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|newspaper=Reuters}} and pushed further west towards Halfaya, taking a checkpoint. Subsequently, the rebels launched a counter-attack and managed to recapture large parts of Taybat al-Imam.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=65144|title=After regime's control of Tayyibat al-Imam town… a counter attack by the factions to restore it|date=20 April 2017 |access-date=23 April 2017}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/2017/04/21/الفصائل-تعاود-التقدم-في-طيبة-الإمام-وخ/|title=الفصائل تعاود التقدم في طيبة الإمام وخسائر بشرية في اقتحام قرية بشرق حماة}} However, after intense clashes that lasted several hours during the night, the military managed to push back the rebels and retain control of the town.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-counter-assault-retake-taybat-al-imam-ends-failure/|title=Jihadist counter-assault to retake Taybat Al-Imam ends in failure|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=21 April 2017|access-date=23 April 2017|archive-date=22 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170422033237/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-counter-assault-retake-taybat-al-imam-ends-failure/|url-status=dead}}
On 22 April, the Army expanded the buffer zone around Taybat al-Imam with new advances.{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-verge-complete-collapse-northern-hama-map/|title=Jihadists on the verge of complete collapse in northern Hama: map|last=Fadel|first=Leith|date=22 April 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=22 April 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=23 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170423062325/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-verge-complete-collapse-northern-hama-map/|url-status=dead}} The next morning, the Syrian Army captured Halfaya{{cite web|url=https://af.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idAFKBN17P0D9|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170425024409/http://af.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idAFKBN17P0D9|url-status=dead|archive-date=25 April 2017|title=Syrian army, allies gain ground against rebels north of Hama|publisher=Reuters|date=23 April 2017}} and began operations to capture Morek. These advances left government forces once again in control of all areas they had lost during the rebel's previous offensive in late 2016.
On 24 April, the Army continued its advance north towards Al-Lataminah and Morek.{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-eliminates-jihadist-salient-northern-hama-amid-push-idlib-map-update/|title=Syrian Army eliminates jihadist salient in northern Hama amid push to Idlib - Map update|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=24 April 2017|access-date=24 April 2017|archive-date=25 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170425023914/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-eliminates-jihadist-salient-northern-hama-amid-push-idlib-map-update/|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-setbacks-continue-syrian-army-forces-push-north-idlib-border/|title=Jihadist setbacks continue as Syrian Army forces push north to Idlib border|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=24 April 2017|access-date=24 April 2017|archive-date=25 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170425030941/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-setbacks-continue-syrian-army-forces-push-north-idlib-border/|url-status=dead}} In the process, the SAA captured two or four more villages and a checkpoint,{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=65339|title=After a violent attack… the regime forces advance and regain control of 2 villages and checkpoint in the northern countryside of Hama|date=24 April 2017 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/three-villages-liberated-syrian-army-pushes-rebel-heartland-hama-map-update/|title=Three villages liberated in rural Hama as Syrian Army reaches rebel heartland - Map update|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=25 April 2017|access-date=24 April 2017|archive-date=25 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170425032627/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/three-villages-liberated-syrian-army-pushes-rebel-heartland-hama-map-update/|url-status=dead}} thus reaching the outskirts of Lataminah.{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-reaches-outskirts-jihadist-stronghold-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army reaches outskirts of jihadist stronghold in northern Hama|last=Fadel|first=Leith|date=24 April 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=24 April 2017|language=en-US|archive-date=24 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170424215119/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-reaches-outskirts-jihadist-stronghold-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}} The next day, the rebels partially recaptured Al-Massasnah in a counter-attack, before the Syrian Army regained their positions in the town the following morning, while also capturing the village of Zullaqiat, north of Halfaya.{{cite news|last1=Fadel|first1=Leith|title=Jihadists claim Al-Massasnah village in northern Hama recaptured|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-claim-al-massasnah-village-northern-hama-recaptured/|access-date=25 April 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|date=25 April 2017|archive-date=26 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170426151437/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-claim-al-massasnah-village-northern-hama-recaptured/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-overruns-two-villages-northern-hama-despite-jihadist-suicide-bombing/|title=Syrian Army overruns two villages in northern Hama despite jihadist suicide bombing|last=Tomson|first=Chris|date=2017-04-26|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=2017-04-26|language=en-US|archive-date=26 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170426130058/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-overruns-two-villages-northern-hama-despite-jihadist-suicide-bombing/|url-status=dead}} On 28 April, rebel forces again assaulted Al-Massasnah, but their attack was eventually repelled.{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/pictures-jihadi-attack-northern-hama-foiled-scores-killed/|title=In Pictures: jihadi attack on northern Hama foiled, scores killed|last=Adra|first=Zen|date=2017-04-29|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=2017-04-28|language=en-US|archive-date=29 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170429075639/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/pictures-jihadi-attack-northern-hama-foiled-scores-killed/|url-status=dead}}
Aftermath
{{main|Hama offensive (September 2017)}}
On 19 September 2017, Tahrir al-Sham, the Turkistan Islamic Party, and their allies launched a new offensive in northern Hama under the codename "Oh Servants of God, Be Steadfast".{{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/al-qaida-led-fighters-offensive-syrian-troops-49945344|title=Al-Qaida-led fighters on the offensive against Syrian troops|website=ABC News }}{{cite web|url=http://syriadirect.org/news/bombardment-returns-to-rebel-held-northwest-as-hts-derails-ceasefire-deal/|title=Bombardment returns to rebel-held northwest as HTS aims to 'demolish, defeat' Astana ceasefire|work=Syria Direct|date=19 September 2017|access-date=20 September 2017|archive-date=12 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190612114706/https://syriadirect.org/news/bombardment-returns-to-rebel-held-northwest-as-hts-derails-ceasefire-deal/|url-status=dead}} The rebels initially captured four villages,{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=74578|title=About 60 fighters and soldiers were killed during the first day of the battle of ((The Last Attempt)) in the far northeast of Hama|date=20 September 2017 }} but after back-and-forth fighting{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=74648|title=During about 48 hours in Hama and Idlib … about 500 raids Russian and Syrian – targeting to about 40 area – more than 130 casualties – exchange of control clashes|date=21 September 2017 }} during which the villages changed hands several times,{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-hama/syrian-army-strikes-rebels-near-hama-monitor-idUSKCN1BW15S|title=Syrian army strikes rebels near Hama: monitor|date=21 September 2017|newspaper=Reuters}}{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-officially-retakes-lost-territory-northern-hama/|title=Syrian Army officially retakes all lost territory in northern Hama|date=20 September 2017|access-date=23 September 2017|archive-date=12 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190612120205/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-officially-retakes-lost-territory-northern-hama/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=74632|title=Airstrikes continue on the countryside of Idlib and Hama and violent clashes renewed with factions' offensive northeast Hama|date=21 September 2017 }} government forces recaptured all of the villages by 22 September.{{Cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=74700|title=Airstrikes continue on cities, towns and villages in the countryside of Hama and Idlib to causing more casualties and wounded|date=22 September 2017 }} 66 rebels and 38 soldiers were killed during the offensive, while more than 40 civilians were killed in nearly 500 air-strikes on about 40 towns and villages in retaliation for the rebel offensive.{{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/russian-special-forces-helping-syrian-troops-key-city-49997112|title=Russian special forces helping Syrian troops in key city|website=ABC News }}
See also
References
{{Reflist|30em}}
{{Tahrir al-Sham}}
{{Syrian Civil War}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Hama offensive (March-April 2017)}}
Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war in 2017
Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Tahrir al-Sham
Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Free Syrian Army
Category:Hama in the Syrian civil war
Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Syrian government