The Syrian conflict is witnessing renewed intense hostilities led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham against the Assad regime amidst shifting regional dynamics following the Hamas attacks. Assad’s regime, though still influential, faces new threats as Iranian support wanes and rebel forces gain ground. International calls for a political resolution highlight the urgent need to address the complexities of the crisis while preventing further escalation.
The resumption of hostilities in Syria marks a significant escalation in the region, following the upheaval triggered by the Hamas attacks on Israel in October of the previous year. While Bashar al-Assad has managed to retain his grasp on power throughout the decade-long civil war by invoking robust support from allies such as Russia and Iran, the landscape is shifting. Recent developments indicate that Iran’s influence is waning due to Israeli actions, impacting its proxy, Hezbollah, which has been significantly weakened in Syria.
As of late November, a coalition of rebel factions led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) initiated a striking military offensive that has resulted in the swift defeat of Syrian government forces in various regions, including the historically fortified Aleppo. HTS, with its roots in jihadist ideology, is attempting a strategic rebranding to garner broader support for its efforts, framing their military actions as a united rebel movement against the regime.
The internal dynamics continue to evolve, with areas dominated by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) contrasting sharply with the HTS-controlled regions. Through seizing military resources and pushing toward key cities like Hama, the rebel forces are positioning themselves advantageously. Nonetheless, international alarm persists, with UN officials emphasizing that militaristic resolutions to the conflict are untenable and calling for a political process to restore order based on UN Security Council resolutions.
The ongoing conflict in Syria, rooted in a complex interplay of regional and international politics, has experienced renewed aggression recently as rebel groups, particularly Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have launched significant offensives against the Assad regime. This resurgence comes after nearly a decade of war, during which Assad has maintained control over major territories with substantial backing from powers like Russia and Iran. However, the changing geopolitical landscape, especially the impact of Israeli counteractions on Iranian interests, could herald a shift in the power dynamics within Syria.
In summary, the Syrian conflict remains a volatile battleground, with the recent rebel offensives revealing the fragility of the Assad regime amidst evolving alliances and hostilities. The ongoing struggle poses significant dangers not only to Syrian civilians but also to broader regional stability. While the regime retains some support, the resurgence of opposition forces signals that the path to peace and resolution remains fraught with challenges. The international community must take heed of these developments as they could influence future diplomatic efforts.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
