Front Burner Who are the fighters reigniting Syria’s civil war?
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Dec 4, 2024 In this discussion, Kareem Shaheen, Middle East editor at New Lines Magazine with over a decade of experience covering Syria, shares insights on the recent surge of Turkish-backed rebels capturing Aleppo with minimal resistance. He analyzes the implications of Assad's weakened army and the pressure from international allies. The conversation also addresses the complex local governance issues under new rebel control and reflects on the humanitarian crisis gripping the region, emphasizing the moral responsibilities of the global community amid ongoing violence.
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Aleppo's Fall and Regime Weakness
- Aleppo, a historically significant city, was divided during the Syrian civil war.
- The recent rebel advance revealed the Syrian government's inherent weakness, highlighting its dependence on Russian and Iranian support.
HTS and its Evolution
- Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a powerful rebel group, has evolved from ties with al-Qaeda.
- Despite skepticism, there are signs of a shift in their messaging and actions, raising questions about their true nature.
HTS's Outreach to Minorities
- HTS has made efforts to reassure minority groups, especially Christians in Aleppo, about their rights.
- They've allowed church services to continue and promised to protect minority rights.