Faced with the advance of the rebels, panic grips Damascus
Panicked residents of Damascus rushed to stock up on food and medicine on Saturday as shops closed as rebels announced they had begun to surround the Syrian capital, Agence France-Presse (AFP) reports. In Jaramana, a suburb of Damascus, as in Deraa, a city in the south of the country, or in Hama, in the center, protesters tore down the statues of former president Hafez Al-Assad, father of the current leader of the state.
In central Damascus, paralyzed by traffic, residents rushed to bank ATMs to withdraw money, as a wave of panic of rare intensity gripped the city, several residents told AFP. Others said they tried to find food or medicine while shops were closed.
Rumors that President Bashar Al-Assad, last seen in public last Sunday, had fled have increased general anxiety, despite denials by his reports.Security forces and the army were deployed in the Mezzeh district, where embassies, United Nations offices and security services are located.
What are the potential consequences of the rebel advancements in Damascus for the Assad regime?
Interview: Panic in Damascus Amid Rebel Advances – Insights from Conflict Expert Dr. Sarah El-Sayed
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. El-sayed. With the recent developments in damascus, where residents are experiencing panic amid rebel advancements, what should we understand about the implications of these events?
Dr.Sarah El-Sayed: Thank you for having me.The situation in Damascus is quite alarming. As rebels have reportedly started to surround the capital,the panic among residents highlights a significant shift in the balance of power within Syria. The fact that many are rushing to stock up on essential goods such as food and medicine signals not only fear for their immediate safety but also a distrust in the current regime’s ability to provide security and stability.
Time.news Editor: in the article, we see mention of protests where residents have torn down statues of former president Hafez Al-Assad. What does this signify about the current sentiment among the populace?
Dr. Sarah El-Sayed: The dismantling of statues is highly symbolic. It reflects a rising discontent with the Assad legacy and a yearning for change. This type of protest, especially in key urban centers like Jaramana and Deraa, indicates that citizens are not only responding to the escalating crisis but are also actively voicing their opposition to the regime’s historical oppression.Such acts can galvanize further protests and unrest, possibly changing the landscape of resistance against the government.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned a wave of panic that is reportedly rare in intensity. Why do you think this panic has reached such a level?
Dr. Sarah El-Sayed: The combination of ongoing violence and uncertainty can create extreme anxiety. In this case, rumors about President Bashar Al-Assad possibly fleeing the capital have exacerbated feelings of instability and fear. When the leadership appears weak or uncertain, it can create a vacuum of reassurance, leading citizens to act out of desperation. The large-scale withdrawal of cash and the rush to secure supplies are both direct responses to perceived threats to their safety and well-being.
Time.news Editor: What advice would you give to residents or those with family members in conflict zones like Damascus during such precarious times?
Dr. Sarah El-Sayed: First and foremost, staying informed is critical. Residents should monitor reliable news sources and be cautious of rumors, which can easily spread panic. It’s vital to have a safety plan in place, including emergency contacts and an understanding of the closest safe locations.Additionally, stockpiling non-perishable food and essential medicines is prudent, assuming the situation allows for it. For those with family in these areas, maintaining regular communication is crucial for emotional support and to assess their safety.
Time.news editor: Thank you, Dr. El-Sayed, for your insights on this complex situation. Your expertise sheds light on both the immediate concerns and the broader implications for Syria as a whole.
Dr. Sarah El-Sayed: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we keep our focus on the human impact of these political struggles. The situation in Syria continues to evolve, and it’s important for the international community to remain engaged and informed.