Concerns Rise Over Assad’s Stability Amid Offers for a Political Transition
Egypt and Jordan officials suggested Assad consider leaving Syria to create an interim council, while the Jordanian Embassy denied such claims. Assad is reportedly asking for support from Turkey and neighboring Arab nations, who are concerned about his government’s stability. The fall of Homs would significantly weaken his regime, as highlighted by analysts amid ongoing rebel offensives in the northwest.
Recent discussions have emerged involving Egyptian and Jordanian officials reportedly suggesting that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad consider leaving Syria to form an interim council that includes members of the opposition. This information has been contested as the Jordanian Embassy in the United States has denied these claims. As of December 6, Assad remains in Syria amidst concerns from various Arab nations regarding the potential collapse of his regime and the ensuing regional instability.
Officials from Qatar, the UAE, and other Arab countries fear that a significant downturn for the Assad government will disrupt the region further. Reports indicate that Assad has sought assistance from Turkey and requested support, including weaponry from Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, and the UAE, but these requests have reportedly been denied. Homs, a key city, remains under government control, but its loss could isolate Assad from vital coastal support influenced by the Alawite minority.
The fall of Homs is seen as critical, as Jerome Drevon, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, stated, “If Homs falls, I don’t see how the regime will be able to survive.” Concurrently, forces opposing Assad have intensified military operations in Idlib, targeting key towns and regions previously under government control. This offensive notably includes actions by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an organization recognized as terrorist and banned in Russia, along with factions of the Syrian National Army.
In response to the offensive, the Russian military has engaged in defense efforts, conducting airstrikes targeting insurgents and their support lines. Further complicating the situation, the Syrian army has recently retreated from the populated city of Hama, describing this as a temporary strategy aimed at ensuring civilian safety, as reported by RBC.
The ongoing Syrian conflict has drawn significant international attention, with a complex interplay of local, regional, and global powers involved. President Bashar al-Assad’s government has faced intensified military pressure from various rebel groups, particularly in the northwest province of Idlib. Key cities such as Homs and Hama represent strategic points for the regime, and their control is essential for maintaining access to the Mediterranean and ensuring the continuation of Assad’s rule amidst increasing pressures from both domestic opposition and foreign entities.
The situation in Syria remains tense with escalating military confrontations and increasing discussions about the future of President Bashar al-Assad. Offers for his departure and the establishment of an interim council signify a potential shift in power dynamics. Nevertheless, the denial from the Jordanian Embassy adds an element of uncertainty to these negotiations. The fate of Homs and Hama could very well determine the survival of Assad’s regime, as rebel offensives continue to gain momentum.
Original Source: eadaily.com
