Hama offensive (March–April 2017)#Khattab

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}}

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}}

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}}

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}}

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}}

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}}

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}}

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}}

{{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 }}

• Idlib Governorate clashes (2017)
• Qaboun offensive (2017)
• Khan Shaykhun chemical attack

{{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

Category:Conflicts in 2017