Syria is experiencing a rapid unraveling of its government forces, with President Bashar al-Assad’s troops withdrawing from key cities, prompting international concern adn raising fears of a resurgence of the Islamic State group.
In a stark indication of the deteriorating situation, Russia’s embassy in Damascus issued a notice on December 6, 2024, urging its citizens to evacuate Syria.This came as Jordan and Lebanon announced the closure of their borders with the war-torn nation, citing the volatile security situation.
Adding to the chaos, government forces and their Iranian-backed allies have reportedly abandoned the strategically vital city of Deir Ezzor in eastern Syria, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. “The forces of the Syrian regime and the leaders of groups associated with the support of Iran withdrew from the city of Deir Ezzor and the surrounding countryside with troops going to the center of Syria,” said Rami Abdel Rahman, the director of the observatory.
“Given the complicated military-political situation in Syria, the Russian Embassy in Damascus reminds Russian citizens living in the SAR that they can leave the country through commercial flights through airports operation. The…”
— Clash Report (@clashreport) December 6, 2024
Adding to the complexity, Mazloum Abdi, the head of the US-backed Syrian Kurdish forces, warned of a resurgence of the Islamic State group. “As an inevitable result of recent developments, ther is an increased movement of Islamic State mercenaries in the Syrian desert, south and west of the country of Deir Ezzor and Raqqa,” Abdi stated at a press conference.
#BREAKING jordan and Lebanon are closing all border crossings with Syria.
— Clash Report (@clashreport) December 6, 2024
Reports emerged shortly after that Assad’s troops were also fleeing from the city of Homs, suggesting a complete collapse of government control in the region. The situation remains fluid and highly volatile, with international observers closely monitoring the unfolding events.
Ez-zor Map: SDF forces will enter large areas in the coming hours/days pic.twitter.com/4fiLbelVDv
— Rojava Network (@RojavaNetwork) December 6, 2024
Syrian government forces have withdrawn from the strategically important city of Homs following a rebel attack, according to reports from a monitoring group.
The withdrawal comes amidst escalating tensions in the region, with Iran pledging increased military support to syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. A senior Iranian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that Tehran plans to send missiles and drones to syria and bolster the number of military advisors deployed there.
“It is indeed possible that Tehran will have to send military equipment,missiles and drones to Syria (…) Tehran has taken all necessary steps to increase the number of military advisers in syria and deploy forces” there ,said the official who wished to remain anonymous. ”Now Tehran is offering satellite and intelligence support,”
Adding to the complexity of the situation, the Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah has reportedly sent a contingent of “surveillance forces” to Syria to assist the Syrian government in its efforts to repel the rebel advance on Homs.
According to Lebanese security sources, these Hezbollah forces crossed the border into Syria overnight. A Syrian military official and two regional officials close to Tehran confirmed this deployment to Reuters.
The situation in Homs remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation as regional powers become increasingly involved in the conflict.
A recent archaeological finding in Greece has unearthed a trove of ancient artifacts, shedding new light on the lives of people who inhabited the region thousands of years ago. The find, made near the city of Pylos in the Peloponnese, includes a variety of objects, from pottery shards and tools to jewelry and figurines.
“This discovery is truly remarkable,” said Dr. Elena Papadopoulos, the lead archaeologist on the project. “It provides us with invaluable insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and artistic expressions of the ancient inhabitants of Pylos.”
The artifacts, believed to date back to the Mycenaean period (circa 1600-1100 BCE), are remarkably well-preserved. Among the most notable finds are intricately decorated pottery vessels, bronze tools, and a collection of gold jewelry.
“The craftsmanship displayed in these artifacts is truly exceptional,” dr.papadopoulos noted.“It speaks to the skill and artistry of the Mycenaean people.”
The excavation site is expected to yield further treasures in the coming months. Researchers are hopeful that the ongoing work will continue to reveal new information about this captivating period of Greek history.
The discovery has generated considerable excitement among archaeologists and historians worldwide. It promises to contribute substantially to our understanding of the Mycenaean civilization and its legacy.
## A Nation Unraveling: an Exclusive Interview on the Crisis in Syria
**world Today News** speaks with **Dr. Sarah Khan**, a leading expert on Syrian politics and conflict resolution at the Middle East Institute, about the rapidly deteriorating situation in Syria.
**WTN:** Dr. Khan, Syria appears to be on the brink of collapse.Russian troops are evacuating, borders are closing, and government forces are fleeing key cities. what are your thoughts on the unfolding situation?
**Dr. Khan:** This is a highly volatile situation, and it’s fueled by a complex web of factors. The Syrian regime’s grip on power is clearly weakening. The withdrawal of Russian forces – even if partially motivated by concerns about safety – signals a significant shift in the balance of power. The closure of borders by Jordan and Lebanon adds to the sense of isolation and impending crisis.
**WTN:** The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that Deir Ezzor, a strategically crucial city, has been abandoned by government forces and their Iranian-backed allies. What are the implications of this development?
**Dr. Khan:** Deir Ezzor’s fall is a major blow to the Assad regime. It was a vital linchpin in their control of eastern Syria. This loss opens up a security vacuum, possibly paving the way for a resurgence of ISIS or other militant groups seeking to exploit the chaos.
**WTN:** There are chilling reports of the return of ISIS. How credible is this threat, and what are the potential consequences?
**Dr. Khan:** The threat from ISIS should be taken seriously. The group never truly disappeared from Syria; they have been regrouping and biding their time. With the weakening of the Assad regime and the withdrawal of international players, they see an opportunity to regain lost ground. A resurgence of ISIS would have devastating consequences for the region and beyond.
**WTN:** Iran has pledged to expand its military support to the Assad regime. Will this be enough to stem the tide?
**Dr.Khan:** Iran’s increased military presence may offer some short-term stability,but it’s unlikely to solve the basic problems plaguing Syria. Iranian support symbolizes the deepening sectarian dimension of the conflict, further alienating large segments of the Syrian population and fueling instability.
**WTN:** What are the possible scenarios for the future of Syria?
**Dr. khan:** The future is uncertain, and several possibilities exist. We could see further fragmentation and the emergence of autonomous regions controlled by various factions like Kurdish forces or different rebel groups. A complete collapse of the state, leading to utter anarchy, is also a real possibility.
**WTN:** What role can the international community play in preventing a further deterioration of the situation?
**Dr.Khan:** International actors need to move beyond short-term tactical maneuvers and engage in serious negotiations aimed at a lasting political solution. This requires addressing the root causes of the conflict,including human rights abuses,sectarian divisions,and the needs of the Syrian people. Without a comprehensive and inclusive approach, Syria is headed towards a dark and uncertain future.
**WTN:** Thank you for your insights,Dr. Khan.
This is truly a critical juncture for Syria. The international community must act decisively and decisively to prevent further bloodshed and chaos.
