Rebels Seize Key Territory in Southern Syria as Conflict Intensifies
Rebel factions in southern Syria have reportedly gained control of most of the Deraa region, a pivotal area where the 2011 uprising against President Bashar al-Assad first began. According to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the insurgents have overtaken numerous military positions in fierce battles with government forces.
Reports of a Withdrawal Deal
Sources cited by Reuters claim an agreement was reached for the Syrian army to withdraw from the region, allowing military officials safe passage to Damascus, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) away. However, these developments remain unverified by independent sources, including the BBC.
Meanwhile, Islamist-led rebel groups in northern Syria have advanced toward the city of Homs, sparking further uncertainty about the Syrian government’s ability to maintain control.
Strategic Importance of Deraa
Deraa holds both strategic and symbolic value. As a provincial capital near vital crossings on the Jordanian border, it was the birthplace of the pro-democracy protests that triggered Syria’s devastating civil war, which has claimed over 500,000 lives. SOHR reports that rebels now control more than 90% of the region, with only Sanamayn still under government control.
Jordan, citing security concerns, has closed its border with southern Syria, further isolating the region.
Northern Syria: Rebels Gain Ground
In northern Syria, Kurdish-led forces have reportedly captured Deir Ezzor, a key government stronghold in the eastern desert. Additionally, Islamist-led rebels have taken Hama, a city north of Homs, marking a significant blow to Assad’s forces. This follows the rebels’ dramatic capture of Aleppo last week, showcasing a renewed offensive capability after years of stagnation.
The rebel advances have displaced an estimated 370,000 people, according to UN reports. Civilians caught in the crossfire face dire conditions, with many trapped in front-line areas without access to safety or aid.
Homs on the Brink
Homs, strategically linking Damascus to Assad’s coastal strongholds, may soon fall into rebel hands. Video footage shows Alawite communities, a key support base for Assad, fleeing the city in fear. The government denies withdrawing from Homs, but reports suggest its forces are struggling to mount an effective defense. Russian airstrikes have targeted infrastructure near the city, such as a bridge in Rastan, in an attempt to stall rebel progress.
Assad’s Allies Under Pressure
Russia and Iran, Assad’s key allies, continue to express support but have provided limited military assistance amid their own challenges. Russia is preoccupied with its conflict in Ukraine, while Iran has faced setbacks due to Israeli strikes on its ally, Hezbollah. The Lebanese militia, a crucial player in defending Assad’s territory, has significantly reduced its involvement in the Syrian conflict.
International Dynamics Shift
The situation has drawn regional and international attention. Turkey, which backs some rebel groups, has supported the recent advances and urged Assad to seek a political solution. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has hinted that the offensive likely proceeded with Ankara’s knowledge and approval.
Meanwhile, Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has been attempting to rebrand himself and his group as nationalists focused on Syria’s internal issues. In a CNN interview, he emphasized HTS’s break from extremist organizations like ISIS and Al Qaeda, pledging to protect minority groups and advocating for a government representing all Syrians.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The rebel takeover of Aleppo and Hama has severely disrupted essential services, including hospitals, bakeries, and utilities. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on global powers to work toward ending the conflict, emphasizing the dire humanitarian toll.
As the rebels push closer to Damascus, the civil war’s next phase promises to reshape the balance of power, with millions of lives hanging in the balance.
