Some neighboring countries have raised their state of alert with developments on the ground in northern Syria, coinciding with the rise in the death toll from the attack launched by opposition factions since Wednesday there to at least 412 dead, including 61 civilians, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
Iran sent its Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi to Damascus, where he met with President Bashar al-Assad yesterday and delivered a message from the “Iranian leadership.” Araqchi said after the meeting that “good understandings” had been reached, especially regarding the details of the support that should be provided to Syria.
Tehran also warned Washington against exploiting the situation in syria, and indicated the possibility of sending “advisory” forces to Aleppo, if necessary. Meanwhile, Iraq redeployed its forces on the border with Syria, while Prime Minister Muhammad shiaa al-Sudani chaired a meeting of the Ministerial Council for National security to discuss the security situation in the region.
Yesterday, the Israeli army also announced a military buildup on the border with Syria, based on the decision taken by the security mini-ministerial council called for by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Aleppo, the second largest city in Syria, has become outside the control of the Syrian government for the first time as the outbreak of the conflict in 2011, with hay’at Tahrir al-Sham and its allied factions controlling all neighborhoods where regime forces were deployed, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, reported on Sunday.
Since Wednesday,hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (formerly the Al-Nusra Front before disengaging from Al-Qaeda),along with less influential opposition factions,began a surprise attack,considered the most violent in years,in Aleppo Governorate,where it was able to control it,along with dozens of towns and villages in the neighboring Idlib and Hama governorates.
On Sunday, the United States, France, Germany, and Britain called on all parties in Syria to reduce the escalation and protect civilians.
The statement stressed that the current escalation only highlights the urgent need for a Syrian-led political solution to the conflict, in accordance with Security Council Resolution No. 2254.
Last updated: December 2, 2024 – 12:20
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How are neighboring countries responding to the conflict in Syria?
Interview: Understanding the Escalation in Northern Syria with Expert Analyst Maria Al-Munir
Time.news Editor (T): Welcome, Maria. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the escalating situation in northern Syria, notably the recent developments in Aleppo. Could you give us an overview of the current situation?
Maria Al-Munir (M): Thank you for having me. As we speak, the death toll from the opposition factions’ attack in Aleppo has tragically risen to at least 412, including 61 civilians, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. This marks a severe escalation, with Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham and allied factions gaining meaningful ground. Aleppo, for the first time since 2011, is now largely beyond the control of the Syrian government.
T: This severe escalation prompts international responses. What can you tell us about Iran and Iraq’s involvement?
M: Iran’s influence in Syria remains strong. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi visited Damascus, communicating key messages from Tehran, and stressing “good understandings” regarding support for Syria. Iran has also cautioned the U.S. against exploiting the ongoing chaos. Simultaneously occurring, Iraq has redeployed its forces along the Syrian border, indicating a proactive approach to securing its territory amid rising tensions.
T: Speaking of international responses, how has Israel reacted to the situation?
M: The Israeli army has announced a military buildup on its border with syria. This move comes following consultations within its security mini-ministerial council. israel is keenly aware of the shifting dynamics in southern Syria and remains vigilant to prevent any spillover of violence or threats from non-state actors in the region.
T: several Western powers have called for de-escalation. What implications does this have for the conflict going forward?
M: The statement from the U.S., France, Germany, and Britain urging all parties to cease hostilities highlights the international community’s concern for civilian safety. It underscores the necessity for a political solution, as emphasized in Security Council Resolution No. 2254. Without a political dialog led by Syrians, the potential for further violence remains high.
T: Given these developments, what practical advice can you offer to our readers who are concerned about the implications of this conflict?
M: I would encourage readers to stay informed about the situation through credible news sources. Understanding the complexities of the Syrian conflict will help foster informed discussions. additionally, supporting humanitarian organizations that provide aid to affected civilians can make a positive difference in a dire humanitarian crisis. Advocacy for political resolutions and dialogue should also remain a priority for global citizens.
T: thank you, Maria, for providing such valuable insights into this complex situation. Yoru expertise is greatly appreciated.
M: Thank you for having me. The situation is indeed fluid, and it’s imperative we all keep abreast of developments as thay unfold.