Sat Dec 07 13:32:48 UTC 2024: ## Syrian Opposition Forces Seize Daraa, Fourth City Lost by Assad Regime in a Week

**BEIRUT** – Opposition forces in Syria have captured Daraa, marking the fourth strategic city lost by President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in just one week, according to reports. The rapid advance, described as a “lightning offensive,” has seen government forces withdraw from large swathes of southern Syria, including Daraa and Sweida provinces.

Daraa, historically significant as the “cradle of the revolution,” fell on Saturday after local factions seized control of over 90% of the province, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed. Sweida, a Druze stronghold, also saw government forces withdraw, with local fighters taking control of several checkpoints. The Syrian army also reportedly withdrew from Quneitra, bordering the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

The Syrian army attributed the withdrawals to a redeployment and the establishment of a security cordon, aiming to defend Damascus from the south. However, the speed and scale of the losses represent a significant setback for the Assad regime, which has lost control of key cities, including Hama and Aleppo, in recent days. Opposition forces are now reportedly at the gates of Homs.

The offensive, launched by a rebel alliance led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) on November 27, has coincided with the Assad regime’s allies, Russia and Iran, being preoccupied with other conflicts. This has left the regime vulnerable to the rapid advance of opposition forces. In eastern Syria, Kurdish-led forces have capitalized on the situation, crossing the Euphrates River and taking control of previously government-held territory in Deir az Zor.

International concern is mounting, with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan scheduled to meet his Russian and Iranian counterparts in Doha to discuss a solution. The three countries, key players in the Astana peace process, have historically supported opposing sides in the conflict. Analysts suggest diplomacy may now focus on an orderly transition for the Assad regime.

The Syrian civil war, which has lasted over a decade, has already claimed over 500,000 lives and displaced millions. The latest offensive raises serious concerns about regional stability, with Iraq already condemning the escalating violence.

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