Syrian government forces, led by the Republican Guard, are advancing against Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (formerly Jabhat al-Nusra, the Syrian branch of al-Qaeda) and Faylaq al-Rahman in the areas of Ayn Tarma and Jobar in the Eastern Ghouta region near Damascus.
While clashes are reported at multiple points across the frontline, an especially intense fighting has taken place in the Manasher roundabout area.
According to pro-militant sources, the clashes are ongoing amid multiple airstrikes by the Syrian Air Force in the area.
The general idea of the government advance in the area is to put pressure on militants in Jobar and then to Isliate the district from Ayn Tarma. The control over the area of Zamalka and the nearby roads plays a key role in the strategy of the Syrian military.
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