Intense fighting continues in Damascus as part of a new rebel offensive dubbed Operation Epic in the Capital of the Umayyads. Positions along the strategic Ring Road that encircles Damascus have changed hands several times in running battles between the two sides. While the rebels made rapid advances in their initial strikes — reaching the outside road and crossing into Jobar district, an urban area where the loyalists are well-entrenched — they continue to face fierce resistance from well-equipped loyalist formations. Tube artillery and multiple rocket launcher artillery stationed on Qasioun Mountain, which overlooks the city, continue to pound suspected rebel positions, while the regime's air force has increased its airstrikes. In a departure from previous operations in the capital area, the rebels have been careful to temper their optimism about their prospects in this offensive. The rebels claim they are now advancing cautiously while ensuring adequate supply lines for their forward units. Previous operations were costly, reckless and easily repelled. The rebels also have said they are now being careful to clear any suspected sniper nests to their rear and that they are prepared to fall back if they encounter overwhelming resistance from loyalist units.
