syrian army
© SANA / Reuters

AlMasdarNews
reports: The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) launched a powerful assault in the northern countryside of Hama on Sunday, targeting the jihadist-held town of Ma'ardes after capturing Al-Abbadah yesterday.

Led by the Tiger Forces, the Syrian Arab Army stormed the eastern gates of Ma'ardes, where they were contfronted by a large force of jihadists from Jund Al-Aqsa (Syrian Al-Qaeda franchise) and Jabhat Fateh Al-Sham (formerly Al-Nusra Front).

According to local reports from northern Hama, the Syrian Armed Forces have entered this town, capturing the eastern axis after a a fierce battle with the jihadist rebels.

In addition to their assault at Ma'ardes, the Syrian Armed Forces have been targeting the Souran area with heavy artillery in preparation for the upcoming assault against Jund Al-Aqsa.