The loss of Hama is a major blow to President Assad's forces as rebels continue to advance across the country. Video footage showed insurgents parading through the streets and firing guns in celebration. We hear the latest from our correspondent in the region and ask Middle East expert Julien Barnes-Darcy how worried President Assad should be in the capital, Damascus.

Also in the programme: President Macron addresses the people of France amid political turmoil. And we hear from Mick Mulvaney, former acting chief of staff in President Trump's White House.

(Photo: A rebel fighter stands atop a military vehicle in northwestern Idlib province, Syria, 1 December, 2024. Credit: REUTERS/Mahmoud Hassano)