What we know:

Syrian rebels claim they have “fully liberated” the city of Homs, with rebel leader Golani describing it as a “historic moment.” However, Syria’s defense ministry has dismissed these reports, stating that rumors of “terrorists entering Homs” are unfounded.

A U.S. official told CBS that Damascus is “falling suburb by suburb” to the rebels, signaling significant territorial losses for the government.

if Homs falls, it could spell major trouble for President Assad’s regime. Meanwhile, the BBC is reporting growing confusion and fear in Damascus, fueled by swirling rumors about the whereabouts of President al-Assad.