SNC says at 'gates of victory'

The Syrian National Council (SNC) sounded a defiant note in an overnight statement on Monday, saying fierce clashes in cities across the country were a sign the opposition was “at the gates of victory”. SNC spokesperson George Sabra said in the statement the heavy fighting that has broken out in Damascus and the country’s second city Aleppo in recent days was an important sign of rebel progress. “What is happening in Damascus and Aleppo and other Syrian towns in recent days is a crucial step to establish a new phase of history in our country and the region as well,” he said, according to AFP. “This is a message provided by the revolution to the people that says very clearly that the regime is going to its inevitable end.” Sabra called on the Syrian population to back the rebels, urging that to do their best “to facilitate the new birth of their nation after the fall of tyranny”. Addressing the “heroes of the Free Syrian Army,” he said “towns and villages are waiting” for them to provide “security, freedom and dignity.” “The National Council supports your steps... and promises you it will not betray the revolution,” he added. But he acknowledged that difficult days lay ahead for the rebel forces, composed of civilians who have taken up arms and soldiers who have deserted from the Syrian regime’s ranks. “The criminals envision another round of bloody violence,” he said. “The regime is wobbling, but it will not surrender easily.” “The last step could be very dangerous. We are at the gates of victory.” The conflict in Syria is said to be spiralling out of control, with rebels locked in fierce battles against regime troops in the key cities of Aleppo and capital Damascus. Over 17,000 people are believed to have died in the 16 months of the pro-democracy uprising, according to activists.