Liberation of Syria

[AbdulQadir7]

Syria have highlighted the evolving dynamics on the ground, particularly concerning Russian military operations and the activities of the Takfiri group Tahrir al-Sham. Reports indicate that Russian military convoys are now traveling freely and securely in areas previously contested by various factions, including Tahrir al-Sham, which has historically viewed Iran and Hezbollah as primary adversaries.

Key Developments​

1. Russian Military Presence: Despite the ongoing conflict and the recent upheaval in Syrian leadership, Russian military convoys are reportedly moving without significant opposition from Tahrir al-Sham. This change suggests a tacit understanding or a shift in focus for the militant group, which has previously engaged in hostilities against Russian forces.
2. Tahrir al-Sham's Focus: The Takfiri group has shifted its attention primarily towards Iran and Hezbollah, indicating a strategic decision to prioritize these perceived threats over engagements with Russian forces. This could reflect a broader recalibration of their operational priorities following the recent political changes in Syria.
3. Russian Airstrikes Impact: Historically, the Russian Air Force has conducted extensive operations against various militant groups in Syria, including Tahrir al-Sham. Thousands of militants have reportedly been killed in these operations, establishing Russia as a formidable force against extremism in the region.
4. Strategic Implications: The ability of Russian forces to operate freely amidst a backdrop of shifting allegiances among Syrian factions may indicate a consolidation of power by Russia in the region. This could have significant implications for future governance and security arrangements in post-Assad Syria.
5. Ongoing Conflict Dynamics: As the situation develops, the interplay between remaining Syrian government forces, various rebel factions, and foreign military presences will continue to evolve. The current state of affairs suggests a complex landscape where former adversaries may find common ground against shared threats.

Conclusion​

The current environment in Syria reflects significant changes following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. The ability of Russian military convoys to navigate areas controlled by Tahrir al-Sham without incident indicates a potential shift in power dynamics and strategic priorities among militant groups. As these developments unfold, they will likely shape the future landscape of conflict and governance in Syria, with implications for regional stability and international relations.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1867053677745410531

 

[sidkhan2]

Recent reports indicate that footage allegedly from the Free Syrian Army claims to show Austin Tice, an American journalist who was abducted in Syria in 2012. The video suggests that Tice was found in the town of Dhibiyeh and had been held captive for years, reportedly tortured in Sednaya prisonby forces loyal to the Assad regime.

Key Details​

1. Discovery of Tice: According to the video, a local named Moussa discovered Tice during the early hours of dawn. The footage portrays him as a man who had been wanted by the U.S. for years after disappearing while covering the Syrian civil war.
2. Conditions of Captivity: The video claims that Tice was held in dire conditions, emphasizing the brutal treatment he allegedly received in Assad's prisons. It serves as a stark reminder of the human rights abuses reported in Syria during the ongoing conflict.
3. U.S. Government Response: Following the recent upheaval in Syria and the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, U.S. officials have expressed renewed hope for Tice's safe return. National security adviser Jake Sullivan stated that finding Tice is a top priority, and they are working with local sources to gather intelligence about his whereabouts.
4. Family's Hope: Tice's family has been vocal about their hopes for his return, especially amid the changing political landscape in Syria. They have received indications from trusted sources that he may still be alive, further fueling their optimism.
5. Ongoing Efforts: The U.S. government has increased its reward for information leading to Tice's recovery to $10 million, reflecting a heightened urgency to locate him as conditions in Syria evolve.

Conclusion​

The potential sighting of Austin Tice offers a glimmer of hope for his family and supporters after more than a decade of uncertainty regarding his fate. As U.S. officials intensify efforts to secure his release, this situation underscores the broader challenges faced by journalists operating in conflict zones and highlights ongoing concerns about human rights violations under authoritarian regimes. The coming days will be critical as more information emerges regarding Tice's status and the possibility of his safe return home.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1867143967587934654

 

[sidkhan2]

Uyghur rebels in Syria have recently issued a warning to the Chinese government, declaring their intent to use BM-21 Gradlong-range missiles that they have discovered among the remnants of Bashar al-Assad's military arsenal. This development highlights the complex interplay of various factions within the Syrian conflict and raises concerns for China regarding its interests in the region.

Key Details​

1. Missile Discovery: The Uyghur rebels, who are part of the broader anti-Assad coalition, have reportedly found these missiles in abandoned military depots previously controlled by Assad's forces. The BM-21 Grad is a truck-mounted multiple rocket launcher known for its effectiveness in delivering a large volume of firepower over a wide area.
2. Threat to China: In a video released by the rebels, they explicitly threaten to target Chinese interests, framing their message as a direct challenge to Beijing. This marks a significant shift as it connects the ongoing conflict in Syria with China's broader geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding its treatment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang.
3. Context of Uyghur Involvement: Uyghur fighters have been documented as part of various rebel groups in Syria, with estimates suggesting that several thousand may have joined the fight against Assad's regime. Their involvement adds another layer to the already complex dynamics of the Syrian civil war.
4. Geopolitical Implications: The threat posed by these rebels could complicate China's position in Syria, where it has historically supported Assad's regime. As China seeks to expand its influence in the Middle East, this warning from Uyghur rebels may force Beijing to reassess its strategies and alliances in the region.
5. International Concerns: The potential use of these missiles against Chinese targets raises alarms not only for Beijing but also for other nations concerned about the proliferation of advanced weaponry among non-state actors in conflict zones. This situation could lead to increased tensions and instability in an already volatile region.

Conclusion​

The emergence of Uyghur rebels threatening China with captured missiles underscores the interconnected nature of global conflicts and the far-reaching implications for national security. As these dynamics unfold, they highlight the challenges faced by countries like China that must navigate complex relationships with various factions while addressing their own domestic issues related to ethnic minorities. The situation warrants close monitoring as it could lead to significant geopolitical shifts in the Middle East and beyond.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1866477093892100127

 

[HamzaWaseem]

https://twitter.com/x/status/1866830529347133648

 

[Novus ordu seclorum]

Democracy sounds 'nice' only because the alternatives are fascist, communist, or apartheid horror shows. People need and deserve better.

 

[HaiderAfan]

Syrian rebels, particularly those affiliated with Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have attempted to breach the Sayyida Zeinab shrine near Damascus, a significant Shiite religious site. This development comes despite earlier assurances from HTS leaders that they would protect such sites.

Key Details​

1. Assault on the Shrine: Armed groups reportedly attempted to storm the Sayyida Zeinab shrine, which houses the tomb of Zeinab bint Ali, granddaughter of the Prophet Muhammad. Video footage has surfaced showing militants trying to enter the shrine but being forced to remain in the courtyard due to the presence of defenders who withdrew to avoid escalating tensions.
2. Background Context: The shrine has historically been a focal point for Shiite pilgrims and a symbol of Iranian influence in Syria. It has been heavily guarded by Iranian-backed forces throughout the civil war. The recent offensive by HTS and other rebel groups marks a significant shift in control over areas previously dominated by pro-Iran factions.
3. Rebel Promises: Initially, HTS had pledged to protect religious sites and ensure the safety of minority groups. However, this recent breach raises concerns about their commitment to these promises and the potential for sectarian violence in a region already fraught with tension.
4. Iran's Reaction: Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, are likely to be displeased with these developments, as they view the protection of Shiite holy sites as critical to their influence in Syria and the broader region.
5. Local Impact: The local Shiite community, estimated at around 250,000, is apprehensive about their safety under the new regime led by Sunni Islamist factions. Many residents fear reprisals or discrimination based on their sectarian identity.
6. Wider Implications: The assault on the Sayyida Zeinab shrine could escalate sectarian tensions in Syria and complicate any efforts toward reconciliation among different religious groups within the country. It also highlights the fragility of security arrangements in areas previously considered safe havens for Shiite Muslims.

Conclusion​

The attempted breach of the Sayyida Zeinab shrine by Syrian rebels underscores the shifting dynamics of power in Syria following recent military advances. As HTS consolidates control over Damascus, concerns regarding the protection of religious minorities and historical sites are paramount. The implications of this incident may reverberate beyond Syria, affecting Iran's regional strategy and its relationships with Shiite communities across the Middle East.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1866828054741520811

 

[RClarkTaylor]

Hundreds of mourners gathered in Damascus to pay tribute to Mazen al-Hamada, a prominent Syrian activist whose mutilated remains were discovered following his imprisonment for opposing the Assad regime. His body was found in a hospital morgue, reportedly alongside others who had also suffered torture.

Key Details​

1. Background of Mazen al-Hamada: Al-Hamada was known for his activism against the Assad regime and for exposing the brutal conditions faced by prisoners in Syria. He had previously been imprisoned and tortured before fleeing to the Netherlands, where he continued to advocate for Syrian rights.
2. Return to Syria: In 2020, al-Hamada returned to Syria under circumstances that his family believes involved being lured back by government officials. Shortly after his arrival, he was detained again and subsequently disappeared.
3. Discovery of His Remains: His family identified his body after it was discovered in a hospital near Damascus, where it showed clear signs of torture, including fractures and burn marks. Reports suggest he had likely died about a week prior to the discovery.
4. Funeral Procession: The funeral took place on December 12, 2024, with mourners carrying al-Hamada's coffin through the streets of Damascus. Many attendees chanted slogans honoring him as a martyr and expressed their grief and anger at the regime's actions.
5. Protests Against the Regime: The gathering turned into a broader call for justice for other missing detainees, with participants demanding accountability from the Assad regime for its human rights violations. The atmosphere echoed earlier protests during the initial stages of the Syrian uprising.
6. Symbol of Resistance: Al-Hamada's story is emblematic of the suffering endured by many Syrians under Assad's rule, with over 100,000 individuals reported missing during the conflict. His death has reignited discussions about the ongoing plight of political prisoners in Syria.

Conclusion​

The mourning of Mazen al-Hamada serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by activists in Syria and highlights the ongoing struggles against oppression in the country. His legacy as a voice for justice continues to inspire calls for accountability and reform in a nation still grappling with the aftermath of civil conflict.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1867325588924469372

 

[Novus ordu seclorum]

All states involved in the war dehumanized and delegitimized the Syrian people. The reason Russia, West, Israel, and Iran got away with it is because Arab states do that to Arabs and Muslims. They have no respect for the people. For them, states, regimes, and rulers are above humanity, and the purpose of existence is to obey the rulers. This is inherited culture from thousands of years.

 

[AbdulQadir7]

Syrian Rebel Leader Advocates for Peaceful Celebration, Signaling a New Era
In a significant turn of events following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime, the leader of Syria's armed opposition, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, has called for a peaceful celebration of the revolution. Addressing the nation in a landmark speech last week after seizing power, Jolani urged Syrians to focus their energies on rebuilding their war-torn country, marking a potential shift in the narrative of Syria's long-standing civil conflict.
A New Image for a New Era
Jolani, previously known for his militant attire and association with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist group with roots in al-Qaeda, was seen in a departure from his usual image. Dressed in civilian clothes, as noted by Reuters' correspondent Timour Azhari, Jolani's appearance without his tactical gear symbolizes a possible rebranding effort to appeal to a broader audience and perhaps to distance himself from his militant past. This change in appearance might be an attempt to project an image of a leader focused on governance and national reconciliation rather than continued warfare.
Call for Peace and Unity
In his address, Jolani emphasized the importance of celebrating the revolution's success without resorting to violence or instilling fear among the populace. "Celebrate in joy, without the need for gunfire or intimidation," he urged, signaling an intent to foster a sense of unity and peace among Syrians from various ethnic and religious backgrounds. This call for peaceful celebration is not only a strategic move to consolidate his leadership but also an attempt to set a new tone for the future of Syrian politics.
Rebuilding Syria
The focus on rebuilding comes at a time when Syria’s infrastructure, economy, and social fabric are in tatters after more than a decade of civil war. The immediate aftermath of Assad's fall presents both an opportunity and a challenge for Jolani and his administration. Rebuilding the country will require not just physical reconstruction but also the healing of deep societal divisions, the reintegration of millions of displaced persons, and the establishment of a new political order that can accommodate Syria's diverse population.
Massive Turnout Expected
The shift in Jolani's public image and his message of peace and reconstruction have evidently resonated with many Syrians. Azhari reports that a massive turnout is anticipated at Friday prayers, where the new political atmosphere will likely be palpable among the crowds. This gathering could serve as an informal referendum on Jolani's leadership and vision for Syria, providing insight into the public's readiness to move from conflict to reconstruction.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the optimistic tone, Jolani's path forward is fraught with challenges. His past as a militant leader associated with extremist groups could hinder international recognition and aid, crucial for Syria's rebuilding efforts. Furthermore, how he navigates the complex web of internal factions, regional powers, and international politics will be critical. The inclusion and protection of minorities, ensuring human rights, and establishing a legitimate, inclusive government will test his leadership beyond the battlefield.
A Turning Point?
Jolani's call for peaceful celebrations and his shift towards a more statesman-like image could indeed mark a turning point for Syria. Whether this new chapter will lead to lasting peace and prosperity for a country that has suffered so much remains to be seen. The world watches as Syria stands at a crossroads, with the potential for a new beginning or a continuation of its troubled history. For now, the focus on rebuilding and unity under Jolani's leadership provides a glimmer of hope in a region long shadowed by conflict.
As Syria moves into this uncertain future, the international community, regional neighbors, and the Syrian people themselves will play pivotal roles in shaping what comes next. Whether Jolani can translate his revolutionary success into effective governance and national healing will be one of the defining stories of the coming years.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1867504180107047218

 

[Novus ordu seclorum]

Iran lost the war years ago by helping one of the worst tyrants of history mass murder, torture, destroy homes and displace Syrians. This occurred on the heels of what had happened in Iraq and most saw through it. When dictators Saddam, Gaddafi, Mubarak, Omar Bashir and others got into trouble, Sunnis around the world did not try to prop them up.