Jihadist forces have gained control of Daraa in southern Syria, raising concerns as they approach Homs, the country’s third-largest city. Activists report that the Assad regime has lost substantial territory, with local groups dominating over 90% of Daraa. Thousands are fleeing Homs amid fears of an impending assault, prompting international warnings for citizens to evacuate. Meanwhile, Russian airstrikes are targeting rebel positions, but experts suggest the Assad regime is weakening, leading to discussions among regional powers on maintaining stability.
Jihadists Make Significant Gains in Syria
Recent reports indicate that jihadist forces have taken control of the symbolic city of Daraa in southern Syria, marking a notable shift in the ongoing conflict. Additionally, in Homs, these forces have reportedly breached the city limits, leading to increasing concerns among local populations and international observers.
Loss of Control and Growing Tensions
Activists claim that the regime led by Bashar al-Assad has lost significant ground in Daraa, with local groups now asserting dominance over more than 90 percent of the province. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has confirmed that various militias have effectively taken charge of the city itself, while reports suggest that rebel forces are closing in on Homs, Syria’s third-largest city.
The origins of the uprising can be traced back to Daraa in 2011, when peaceful protests were met with violent suppression, igniting the Syrian civil war. After several years of government control, the region is now witnessing a resurgence of opposition forces.
As tensions escalate, thousands of residents have fled Homs amid fears of an imminent assault. Rebel factions have declared that they have liberated the last village on the outskirts and are now at the gates of the city. This situation has raised alarms among Assad’s supporters, with reports indicating that the fall of Homs could further isolate the capital, Damascus, from coastal retreat areas crucial for the regime.
In response to the escalating conflict, the Russian Air Force, in coordination with Syrian jets, has conducted airstrikes targeting rebel positions across several provinces, claiming to have destroyed numerous enemy assets. Despite this military support, experts suggest that the Assad regime’s foundation is weakening, with growing reluctance among troops to fight for its survival.
In light of the volatile situation, the United States has urged its citizens to evacuate Syria while commercial flights remain operational, citing an unpredictable security environment. Jordan has echoed this sentiment, advising its nationals to leave swiftly and closing one of its border crossings for safety reasons.
Furthermore, a meeting of foreign ministers from Syria, Iran, and Iraq has underscored the regional implications of the jihadist offensive, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to maintain stability. As discussions continue among Turkey, Iran, and Russia, the situation remains precarious, with the potential for significant shifts in power dynamics in the region.