Sun Dec 08 12:51:22 UTC 2024: ## Syrian Rebels Seize Daraa, Dealing Major Blow to Assad Regime
**DAMASCUS** – Syria’s ongoing civil war, which began 13 years ago, has intensified in recent days with rebel forces capturing Daraa, a strategically important city following the seizure of Hama and Aleppo. This significant loss marks a major setback for President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
The Syrian government’s armed forces failed to repel a multi-pronged, intense offensive launched by various rebel groups on Daraa, a city considered “the cradle of the revolution” and located in the Hawran region bordering Jordan. Reports suggest rebels now control approximately 90% of the city.
The conflict initially erupted in 2011 following the arrest of several young men who had written anti-Assad graffiti on school walls. Allegations of government brutality against these detainees sparked widespread protests and escalated into a full-blown civil war.
Shocked by the unexpected rebel gains, Assad is reportedly preparing a counteroffensive with support from Russia and Iran. However, both countries are currently embroiled in their own conflicts; Russia in Ukraine and Iran facing challenges in Lebanon and Gaza following Israeli strikes against Hezbollah and Hamas, respectively. This leaves Assad with diminished external support at a critical juncture.
The recent rebel successes, coming just days after a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, have raised numerous questions and highlight the increasing unity among formerly disparate rebel factions. Abu Mohammad al-Julani, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (formerly affiliated with al-Qaeda), has played a crucial role in uniting various rebel groups, leading to the coordinated and effective attacks.
The ongoing conflict has already claimed over 50,000 lives and driven millions into neighboring countries, highlighting the devastating humanitarian crisis alongside the escalating military conflict. The situation in Syria, complicated by regional instability, remains highly volatile and precarious.
First Piper 