Syrian army captures Tabqa and largest dam amid rapid push on Raqqa
Syrian government forces have taken full control of the strategic city of Tabqa and its military airbase on the Euphrates River, marking a major step in a fast-moving offensive in Raqqa province. The advance also secured the Euphrates Dam, the largest in Syria and a vital asset for electricity generation and water supply.
Authorities say army units pushed Kurdish-led forces out of the city and surrounding areas as part of a broader campaign that has rapidly shifted the balance of power in northern Syria. Troops advanced from multiple directions, forcing the Syrian Democratic Forces into retreat across several fronts.
Fighting spread to nearby towns, where government forces moved to secure key infrastructure and transport routes. Reports indicate that dozens of SDF fighters surrendered after being encircled. At the same time, damage to water infrastructure near Raqqa has caused disruptions to supplies for civilians.
Observers note that the speed of the advance exceeds expectations and diverges from earlier plans for a gradual handover of territory. This has raised concerns about a disorderly transition on the ground. Government forces are now within a few kilometres of Raqqa’s western outskirts, signalling that further military action in the area may be imminent.
