Syria Civil War: The situation in Syria is becoming ncreasingly dire as rebel forces gain control over key regions. Three major cities—Aleppo, Homs, and Daraa—have fallen to the rebels, who are now advancing towards the capital, Damascus. This development has placed immense pressure on the government led by President Bashar al-Assad. Reports suggest that Assad has fled Syria with his family to Russia, though the Syrian government has denied these claims, dismissing them as baseless rumors. However, Reuters, citing Syrian army officials, has confirmed that Assad departed the country on a special flight.
Assad’s Legacy: 24 Years of Power
Bashar al-Assad has been at the helm of Syria for 24 years. The seeds of dissent were sown in 2011 with widespread protests against his regime. What began as peaceful demonstrations evolved into a protracted civil war, drawing in multiple foreign and extremist factions. Among these is Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), now the most powerful rebel group in Syria. HTS is linked to Al-Qaeda and is classified as a terrorist organization by the United States and other countries.
Abu Mohammad al-Golani: The Face of the Rebellion
HTS is spearheaded by Abu Mohammad al-Golani, a controversial figure who has assured minorities in Syria that his group would not interfere in their lives. Despite these assurances, many Syrians fear the potential for a harsh Islamic rule under HTS. International observers have voiced concerns about the group’s intentions and opposed any potential spillover of Islamist violence beyond Syria’s borders.
Fear of Civil War Deepens
The Assad regime’s control is weakening, with the Syrian army retreating from key fronts. The rebels' growing influence has heightened fears of a full-scale civil war. The United Nations estimates that over 3,70,000 people have been displaced amid the escalating violence. Daraa, the cradle of the 2011 uprising, has once again fallen to rebel forces. HTS now controls Aleppo and Homs, solidifying its dominance in these strategic areas.
A Worsening Conflict
The conflict took a dramatic turn on November 27, when clashes intensified between the Syrian army and rebel forces. By December 1, the rebels had seized Aleppo, followed shortly by Homs and Daraa. The fall of Daraa, located just 90 kilometers from Damascus, represents a significant challenge for the Assad government. Rebel fighters are now openly patrolling the streets of captured cities, celebrating their victories and showcasing their weaponry.
India Issues Advisory
In response to the deteriorating security situation, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has issued an advisory for Indian nationals in Syria. Citizens have been urged to leave the country immediately and avoid traveling to conflict zones. The Indian Embassy in Damascus remains the primary point of contact for those seeking assistance.
Trump’s Stance: "Not America’s Fight"
While the policies of former U.S. President Barack Obama and Russia are being criticized for Syria's crisis, newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump has distanced himself from the conflict. Trump stated that the Syrian crisis "is not America's fight." Meanwhile, Russia, traditionally a staunch ally of the Assad regime, has provided limited support this time, further complicating the situation for Assad.
Global Implications of the Rebellion
The ongoing rebellion holds significant geopolitical ramifications. Syria occupies a strategic position in West Asia, and the outcome of this conflict could ripple across the region. Experts warn that the rebellion may destabilize neighboring countries and disrupt global oil markets, potentially driving up prices. Additionally, the crisis could strain international relations, particularly among countries with vested interests in Syria's future.
As the conflict intensifies, the world watches with bated breath, aware that the repercussions of Syria's crisis extend far beyond its borders.
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