Syrian forces secure hilltops near Damascus international highway

The Syrian forces on Wednesday wrested back control over hilltops overlooking the international road that connects the capital Damascus with the central and coastal regions, the state-run TV said.

The hilltops are located in the suburb of southern Harasta, which overlooks the international road, the key route that connects Damascus with other northern and central cities.

Five days ago, the rebels unleashed a wide-scale offensive on the government-controlled part of Harasta, prompting the government troops to cut off the Damascus international road for the safety of passengers, who switched to a sub-route that has been largely used during the conflict.

The rebels' aim behind the raging battles in Harasta is to capture a military base in the restive suburb from government forces.

The latest development was seen as posing a major challenge to government forces due to the importance of the international road, as it's the main lifeline for Damascus and major supply line to the Syrian forces in other Syrian cities.

The road's vicinity will be largely secured after Wednesday's operation. Endit