Al-Assad Loses Daraa to Rebels: Southern Syria in Turmoil, Homs at Risk

Al-Assad Loses Daraa as Rebels Close in on Homs, Regime's Grip Weakens in Southern Syria:
As rebels close in on other strategic locations like Homs, the balance of power in southern Syria continues to evolve, raising concerns over the regime's weakening grip on the region.The loss of Daraa is a blow to the Assad regime, which has struggled to maintain control over key areas in the south.

Al-Assad Loses Daraa, Shifting Power in Southern Syria

Rebel forces have reportedly captured most of the Daraa region in southern Syria, a pivotal area that played a crucial role as the birthplace of the 2011 uprising against President Bashar al-Assad. This significant development marks a turning point in the Syrian Civil War, with opposition groups gaining ground in a historically strategic region. Daraa’s fall is a major blow to the Assad regime, which is struggling to maintain control in southern Syria. As rebels continue to advance, Homs is also under threat, further challenging the regime’s grip on key locations. The ongoing battle for Daraa highlights the shifting dynamics of power in southern Syria.

Key Developments in Syria Conflict:

• Daraa Captured by Rebels:Rebel forces seize control of Daraa, a significant blow to Assad’s regime.
• Homs Under Threat:Rebels advance towards Homs, a strategic city crucial for Assad’s control.
• India Issues Travel Advisory for Syria:The Indian government warns citizens to avoid travel to Syria due to escalating security risks.
• Iran Reduces Military Presence:Iran begins withdrawing forces from Syria, signaling potential shifts in support for Assad.
• US Warns Citizens to Leave Syria:The US State Department advises American citizens to leave Syria amid growing violence.

Al-Assad Loses Daraa after Syrian Army Withdraws Under Safe Passage Deal

In a significant shift in southern Syria, local rebel factions have reportedly seized control of many key military sites in Daraa following intense clashes with government forces.According to a UK-based war monitor, the rebels’ victory came after violent battles with the Syrian military. Rebel sources revealed to Reuters that an agreement was reached for government troops to withdraw from the region, with military officials granted safe passage to Damascus, approximately 100 km away.

This agreement comes amid a broader shift in the conflict, with local rebel groups claiming victory over strategic military sites in Daraa.Although these reports have not been independently verified as of now, they come at a time when Islamist-led rebels in northern Syria are advancing toward Homs. The fall of Daraa represents a major blow to the Assad regime’s authority in southern Syria.

Also Read: Understanding the Middle East Crisis: 5 Key Dynamics of U.S. Involvement, Iranian Influence, Israeli Security, ISIS Threats, and Regional Stability

India Warns Citizens Against Traveling to Syria Due to Ongoing Risks

The Indian government has issued an urgent travel warning for Syria, advising its citizens to avoid all travel to the country due to ongoing security risks. The Ministry of External Affairs released the advisory on Friday, highlighting the dangers posed by the unstable situation in Syria. “In light of the current conditions in Syria, Indian nationals are strongly advised to avoid all travel to Syria until further notice,” the statement reads. This advisory underscores the growing concerns over safety for travelers amidst the ongoing conflict in the region.

The ongoing conflict in Syria continues to shift the balance of power, with rebel forces making significant territorial gains. As key regions like Daraa and Homs fall into rebel hands, international concerns grow, leading countries like India and the US to issue travel warnings. Iran’s decision to scale back its military presence also adds to the uncertainty, pointing to potential changes in alliances and the future of the Assad regime. The situation remains volatile, with no clear resolution in sight.The increasing number of displaced civilians and the rising tensions between foreign powers further complicate efforts toward a peaceful resolution, leaving the region in a fragile state.