Escalating tensions in Syria put shaky stability on the line
By Hoda Yousefi
Guest contributor
On Wednesday, November 27, 2024, a coalition of various armed groups, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, commenced military operations in Syria. These developments have escalated the situation, resulting in direct confrontations with the Syrian Army and the advance of these groups toward Aleppo. This unfolding scenario comes on the heels of a decade-long civil war in Syria, which lasted from 2011 to 2020, and follows a recent period of fragile stability in the region. The Syrian Army has faced significant challenges due to years of conflict, and the government continues to address the economic impacts stemming from this ongoing situation.
The regional situation in Syria has become increasingly challenging. Russia, a key military ally of the Bashar al-Assad government, is currently focused on its involvement in the Ukraine conflict. At the same time, Iran and Hezbollah, which also support Syria, are addressing their own engagements in Lebanon and their ongoing tensions with Israel. In light of the reduced Russian military presence and the logistical support from Iran and Hezbollah, there has been heightened activity from terrorist groups attempting to expand their influence within Syria.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which currently leads this movement, was formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusra and was associated with Al-Qaeda in Syria. Over time, however, the group made the significant decision to distance itself from Al-Qaeda, officially establishing itself as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in 2016. Since then, the organization has declared its intent to operate independently, emphasizing its separate identity.
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