Special - An In-Depth Look at the Syria Offensive w/ Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi (Preview)
Dec 5, 2024
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In this fascinating discussion, Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi, an Arabic translator and historian with expertise in jihadist groups, analyzes recent developments in Syria. He details the swift military operations in Aleppo, shedding light on the strategic implications for the Syrian government. The conversation also highlights complex ties between militant factions and Turkey's pivotal role. Al-Tamimi's insights reveal the evolving landscape of alliances, including the unexpected collaboration between Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham and Kurdish forces.
The rapid advances of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Aleppo signify a surprising escalation in the Syrian conflict, unsettling previously held territories.
Turkey's dual role in supporting and opposing Hayat Tahrir al-Sham underscores the complexities of external influences on Syria's ongoing power struggles.
Deep dives
Insurgent Offensives in Syria
The current landscape of conflict in Syria is marked by two significant insurgent offensives. One, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has launched Operation Detering the Aggression, aiming to repel Syrian government forces from territories like Idlib and Aleppo. The rapid success of this offensive has taken many residents by surprise as government forces faced unexpected withdrawals, leading to significant territorial gains for the insurgents, including the capture of Aleppo City. The offensive has not only pushed back the government forces but has also destabilized the previously held territories, reigniting memories of similar past offensives in the region.
The Turkish Connection and Ceasefire Dynamics
The relationship between Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and Turkey is complex, marked by both cooperation and opposition. While Turkey officially designates Hayat Tahrir al-Sham as a terrorist group, it has simultaneously acted to support the group during times of conflict, especially to prevent a surge of refugees crossing into Turkey. The ceasefire agreement brokered in March 2020 effectively froze frontline battles and established a fragile peace in which Hayat Tahrir al-Sham played a role in maintaining order, despite the presence of more radical factions within its ranks. This intricate dynamic highlights the ongoing struggles for power within Syria and the influence of external actors like Turkey on the ground.
Derek is joined by translator and historian Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi to take a closer look at the past week's events in Syria. They delve into groups like Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, Turkey's role and its current goals, the timing of the offensive, the quick seizure of Aleppo, the mood on the ground, and more.