Egypt and Jordan have offered Syrian President Assad the chance to leave power, amidst increasing instability concerns in Syria. The proposal includes forming an interim council with opposition representation. Homs represents a crucial battleground, with possible consequences for the Assad regime’s survival, as rebel forces continue their offensive supported by regional players and Syrian military actions.
Egypt and Jordan have reportedly approached Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, proposing he step down from power and establish an interim council featuring opposition representatives, according to The Wall Street Journal. However, this claim has been denied by the Jordanian Embassy in the United States. Meanwhile, as of December 6, Assad remains in Syria, amidst growing concerns from Arab nations regarding the potential collapse of his government and the destabilization it may cause throughout the region.
Sources indicate that Assad sought assistance from Turkey and weapons from Egypt, the UAE, Jordan, and Iraq but was turned down. Homs, the last significant city under government control, is strategically critical as it serves as a corridor between Damascus and rebel-controlled territories. The city’s population numbers approximately 800,000, and its loss would sever government access to the Mediterranean along the Alawite minority regions.
Jerome Drevon, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, stated, “If Homs falls, I don’t see how the regime will be able to survive.” Currently, Syrian rebels, particularly from the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, recognized as a terrorist organization, have intensified their offensive in Idlib province. The assault has resulted in the capture of vital towns, including portions of Aleppo.
The Russian military has intervened, conducting air strikes to support government forces against the rebel advancements. There is also a tactical withdrawal by the Syrian army from Hama, justified as necessary for civilian safety amidst escalating conflicts.
These developments underscore the precarious situation in Syria, with multiple players in the region assessing their strategies amid fears of a regime change that could exacerbate instability.
The Syrian conflict has significantly evolved, with various factions and countries influencing the situation on the ground. The relationship between the Assad regime and neighboring Arab states has been strained, particularly as Jordan and Egypt have shown some willingness to engage with opposition elements. Homs’ control is pivotal, as it connects the capital to rebel-held regions and is a stronghold of Assad’s support base. The extensive military engagements and rebel offensives highlight the ongoing volatility, necessitating external powers’ involvement, including Russian military support.
The situation surrounding President Assad remains precarious as regional dynamics shift, particularly with Egypt and Jordan proposing a political solution that includes a transitional governance framework. The loss of cities like Homs, pivotal to the regime’s power, poses a critical threat to Assad’s ability to maintain control. As rebel forces consolidate strength, the ramifications of these developments will continue to unfold, impacting the broader implications for stability in Syria and the region.
Original Source: eadaily.com
