In a meaningful progress in the Syrian conflict, U.S.-backed Syrian Kurdish forces have reportedly seized control of the strategically important eastern city of Deir el-Zor. Multiple news sources, including Reuters and The Times of israel, are reporting the capture, citing unnamed sources.
The city, which had been under the control of Syrian government forces, is considered a key prize in the ongoing struggle for control of Syria. Its capture by the Kurdish-led Syrian democratic Forces (SDF) marks a major setback for the Syrian government and its allies.
“Syrian troops ‘suddenly’ pull out of Deir Ezzor city,” reported RTÉ News,highlighting the swiftness of the SDF’s advance. The circumstances surrounding the Syrian government’s withdrawal remain unclear.
Adding to the intrigue, unconfirmed videos have surfaced online appearing to show American A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft operating over Syria. Flightglobal, an aviation news outlet, reported on the videos, which have fueled speculation about the level of U.S. involvement in the recent developments.
The capture of Deir el-Zor by the SDF is a major turning point in the Syrian civil war.It remains to be seen what the long-term implications of this development will be for the region.
US-Backed Forces Capture Deir El-Zor: A Turning Point in the Syrian Conflict?
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In a significant development in the Syrian conflict, US-backed Syrian Kurdish forces have reportedly seized control of the strategically crucial eastern city of Deir el-Zor. Multiple news sources, including Reuters and The Times of Israel, are reporting the capture, citing unnamed sources. The city, previously under the control of Syrian government forces, is a key prize in the ongoing struggle for control of Syria. The capture by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) marks a major setback for the Syrian government and its allies.
The swiftness of the SDF’s advance is highlighted by reports from RTÉ News stating that Syrian troops “suddenly” pulled out of Deir Ezzor city. The circumstances surrounding the Syrian government’s withdrawal remain unclear. Adding to the intrigue, unconfirmed videos have surfaced online appearing to show American A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft operating over Syria.
Flightglobal, an aviation news outlet, reported on these videos, which have fueled speculation about the level of US involvement in the recent developments.
To delve deeper into the implications of this major development,we spoke with two renowned experts on the Syrian conflict:
- Dr. Lina Khatib, Director of the Middle East and North Africa Programme at Chatham House, specializing in Syrian politics and security.
- Colonel Peter Mansoor (Ret.), Professor of Military History at The Ohio State University, an expert in US military strategy in the Middle East.
The Strategic Meaning of Deir El-Zor
WTN Editor: Dr. Khatib, can you help us understand the strategic importance of Deir el-Zor and why its capture by the SDF is such a significant development?
Dr. Khatib: “deir el-Zor is strategically vital due to its location on the Euphrates River and its proximity to the border with Iraq. it’s a major oil-producing region and serves as a crucial logistical hub connecting eastern Syria to the rest of the country. Its fall to the SDF represents a major loss of territory and resources for the Syrian government and strengthens the SDF’s control over northeastern Syria.”
US Involvement and regional Implications
WTN Editor: Colonel Mansoor, what are the implications of the reported US air support in the capture of Deir el-Zor? Does this signal a shift in US policy towards a more direct military intervention in Syria?
Colonel Mansoor: “The presence of US airpower underscores the close cooperation between the SDF and the US in the fight against ISIS. While this operation may not be indicative of a complete policy shift towards a larger military intervention, it does demonstrate a continued commitment by the US to supporting its Kurdish allies and countering Iranian influence in the region.”
Future Outlook and Potential for Escalation
WTN Editor: What are the potential long-term implications of this development for the Syrian conflict? Could this lead to further escalation and conflict between the various factions in Syria?
Dr. Khatib:
“The capture of Deir el-Zor is highly likely to further complicate the already complex Syrian landscape. It could provoke a backlash from the Syrian government and its allies, leading to increased violence in other parts of the country. It also raises questions about the future of the SDF and its relationship with Turkey, which views the Kurdish group as a threat to its national security.”
Colonel Mansoor: “The situation remains highly volatile. The risk of escalation is real,particularly with the involvement of regional powers like Turkey and Iran. Diplomatic efforts to find a political solution to the conflict are more crucial than ever.
Call to Action
The capture of Deir el-Zor represents a critical juncture in the Syrian conflict. What are yoru thoughts on this development? Share your insights in the comments below. And stay tuned for more in-depth analysis of the evolving situation in Syria.
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