The Syrian government has suffered a significant setback as it lost control of Daraa, a city symbolically known as the “cradle of the revolution.” This development marks a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict, as President Bashar al-Assad’s forces face mounting pressure from rebel groups. Daraa is the latest in a series of key cities, including Aleppo and Hama, to fall into rebel hands.
The Significance of Daraa:
Daraa holds historical importance as the birthplace of Syria’s 2011 uprising, sparked by the government’s detention and alleged torture of boys who wrote anti-Assad graffiti. The city’s recent capture by local armed factions, rather than larger Islamist-led alliances, highlights the fragmented yet effective nature of the opposition.
Rapid Rebel Gains:
The loss of Daraa follows swift rebel advances since an offensive began on November 27, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group rooted in the Syrian branch of Al-Qaeda. Within days, the government lost Aleppo, Hama, and significant territories in Daraa province. Rebels are now at the gates of Homs, while government forces have retreated from Deir Ezzor, signaling a collapse in strategic defenses.
Humanitarian Crisis:
The conflict continues to take a devastating toll. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports at least 826 deaths, including 111 civilians, since the offensive began. The United Nations estimates that over 280,000 people have been displaced in recent days, adding to the 500,000 killed and millions displaced since the war began.
International Dynamics:
The situation has drawn international attention, with the U.S. urging a political solution and protection for civilians. Meanwhile, regional powers, including Turkey, Iran, and Russia, are engaged in complex diplomatic maneuvers. Iran, a key Assad ally, is reportedly scaling back its military presence, signaling a shift in its commitment to the regime.
Outlook:
In Homs, fear grips the Alawite minority, a key support base for Assad, as thousands flee advancing rebels. For many Syrians in exile, these developments bring mixed emotions—hope for change but concerns over the Islamist agenda of some rebel factions. The sudden collapse of government control in multiple cities underscores the fragility of Assad’s grip on power and the potential for a new phase in Syria’s protracted civil war.
All News View   Facebook
