Syrian opposition forces seized control of Hama, marking a significant shift in Syria's civil war. The rebels captured the central prison and several neighborhoods, while communications went down in Aleppo. The Assad regime acknowledged losing the strategic city.
Lebanese Army conducted raids on refugee camps, arresting 30 Syrians, while strengthening its eastern border positions. French supervision mechanisms for the southern ceasefire were detailed, as PM Mikati met with French military delegation to discuss the implementation of Resolution 1701.
Hezbollah's Naim Qassem clarified that the ceasefire agreement applies only south of the Litani, while pledging support for Syria. Five Lebanese were wounded in an Israeli strike on Aitaroun, as cluster munition clearance operations continued in multiple locations.
Presidential election discussions intensified ahead of January 9 session, with Speaker Berri reportedly seeking to secure a president before potential Trump return to power.