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Damascus is the Syrian regime’s center of gravity. The capital of Syria has long been viewed by the rebel forces as the key to winning the war in Syria, and its loss is unthinkable for Bashar al-Assad. Thus the struggle for Damascus is existential for the regime as well as the opposition.
Following sporadic violence throughout the summer of 2013, fighting between pro-regime and rebel forces has begun to concentrate on the Damascus-Homs supply route running through Qalamoun.
In addition to giving insight into the current state of play between regime and rebel forces in the war, the unfolding dynamics among rebel groups in Deraa serve as indicators for how the armed opposition is taking form in Syria’s southern front.
A new coalition has formed among eleven Syrian rebel organizations, according to a statement that Liwa al-Tawhid released late on September 24.
For the latest updates from ISW on the ongoing situation in Syria, please follow our new blog at http://iswsyria.blogspot.com.
U.S. Navy warships are positioned for a strike against Syria using Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles. This could cause varying degrees of damage to the Assad regime’s ability to use more chemical weapons or continue operations against the opposition.
The battle for Latakia has demonstrated the unique dynamics of the coastal area for combat between the rebel and regime forces.
Despite significant gains in Homs province, Syrian government forces are struggling against opposition forces on other fronts.
The recent death of a Syrian rebel commander at the hands of an al-Qaeda linked group focused the international spotlight on tensions between moderate and jihadi forces fighting in Syria.
This product is a technical study of the requirements to conduct a limited strike. It is not a recommendation for or against a strike, nor does it evaluate the possible effects of a strike on the regime, the rebels, or various states and non-state actors supporting both sides.