Updated Situation Report: Syria, December 6, 2024
The Syrian conflict has entered a new phase with a marked increase in hostilities, predominantly in the northwest, following a major offensive by opposition forces. Here is the most recent update:
Military Developments:
– Rebel Advance on Homs: Opposition forces, having captured Hama, have continued their southward push, reaching the outskirts of Homs city. Towns like Talbiseh, Ar-Rastan, and Al-Dar al-Kabirah are now under rebel control, with strategic positions along the Hama-Homs highway secured. This has positioned the rebels within 5 km of Homs, a critical city for the Syrian government’s control over central areas.
– Regime Withdrawal and Counteractions: In response to the rebel advance, Syrian government forces have withdrawn from several strategic locations north of Homs, including the destruction of the Al-Rastan bridge to hinder rebel movements. Despite this, the opposition’s momentum appears unabated.
– Airstrikes and Shelling: Russian and Syrian regime forces have intensified airstrikes targeting rebel-held areas to slow down their advance. However, the effectiveness of these strikes in halting the rebel progress is limited.
Humanitarian Crisis:
– Mass Displacement: The escalation has caused significant displacement, with thousands fleeing towards safer areas or crossing into Turkey. The UN has reported over 115,000 people displaced since the hostilities intensified.
– Civilian Casualties: The violence has resulted in civilian deaths and injuries, with airstrikes hitting residential areas, markets, and infrastructure. The White Helmets have been actively involved in rescue operations amidst continuous attacks.
– Aid and Infrastructure: The humanitarian response is severely challenged by the ongoing conflict, with many health facilities, water stations, and bakeries out of service. The need for immediate aid is critical as winter conditions exacerbate the plight of the displaced.
Political and International Reaction:
– UN and International Calls for Peace: The UN Security Council has expressed deep concern over the escalation, urging all parties to de-escalate and protect civilians. UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen has highlighted the volatile and dangerous situation.
– Regional Powers: Turkey, with its interests in northern Syria, continues to support opposition groups but also manages its relations with Russia to avoid direct military confrontation. The U.S. maintains its stance on counter-terrorism operations and has criticized the regime’s actions while not directly engaging in the current conflict.
– Global Attention: There’s been a call from various nations for adherence to international humanitarian law, with some like China advising its nationals to leave Syria due to the increased instability.
Governance and Control:
– Rebel Governance: In areas captured by the opposition, there are attempts to establish governance. The Syrian Salvation Government, aligned with HTS, is trying to administer these regions, although under the shadow of ongoing warfare.
Economic Impact:
– Trade and Supply Lines: The conflict’s escalation has disrupted key supply routes, affecting not only military logistics but also civilian goods, leading to economic strain in contested areas.
The situation in Syria has seen a dramatic shift with opposition forces making significant territorial gains, challenging the Assad government’s control over key urban centers. The international community watches closely as any further developments could influence the broader Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, necessitating immediate and sustained international intervention to address the dire needs of civilians caught in the crossfire.
