Syria News Update: The Conflict and Current Situation

Edited by- Umar-Mark Victor

Source- Newyork times, CNN

Syria has been embroiled in a devastating conflict since 2011, resulting in one of the worst humanitarian crises of our time. The conflict has led to the displacement of millions of people, widespread destruction, and a significant loss of life. In this article, we will provide an update on the current situation in Syria, explore the root causes of the conflict, and examine the key players involved.

The Syrian conflict began in March 2011, as part of the wider Arab Spring protests that swept across the Middle East. The protests in Syria were initially peaceful, with demonstrators calling for democratic reforms and an end to the authoritarian rule of President Bashar al-Assad.

However, the situation quickly escalated into violence, with the government responding to the protests with force. The opposition, which was initially led by secular and democratic groups, became increasingly fragmented and radicalized, with extremist groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda becoming prominent players.

Photo of Bashar al-Assad the President of Syria

Bashar al-Assad

Bashar al-Assad is the President of Syria and the leader of the Ba'ath Party. He has been in power since 2000, when he succeeded his father, Hafez al-Assad. Assad's government has been accused of numerous human rights abuses, including torture, extrajudicial killings, and the use of chemical weapons.

Syrian Opposition

The Syrian opposition is a loose coalition of groups opposed to the Assad government. The opposition includes secular and democratic groups, as well as extremist groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda. The opposition has been fragmented and disorganized, with different groups having different goals and ideologies.

The Syrian conflict has attracted international intervention, with several countries providing military and financial support to different parties. The United States, Russia, Turkey, and Iran have all been involved in the conflict, with different goals and motivations.

latest update on Syria as of today, Wednesday, December 11, 2024.

Syria is currently experiencing a critical humanitarian situation following the collapse of the Assad government on December 8, 2024. The situation is volatile and dynamic, with hostilities reported in several areas, including Damascus, Rural Damascus, Dar'a, and As-Sweida.

Rebels have seized power, and Bashar al-Assad has fled. India has evacuated 75 nationals from Syria, including 44 'zaireen' from Jammu & Kashmir who were stranded at Saida Zainab.

The humanitarian situation is dire, with approximately 100,000 individuals displaced to north-east Syria. Displacement remains highly fluid across the country, with concerns about the risks of explosive ordnance as people continue to move.

Hospitals across Syria are overwhelmed by the high number of trauma and other injury cases. Health partners reported significant psychological distress among civilians, with signs of trauma particularly pronounced in children.

Food shortages have been reported in major cities, including Deir ez-Zor, Damascus, and Hama. The price of bread alone in Idleb and Aleppo has increased by 900% between November 27 and December 9.

The international community, including the United Nations, is working to provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict. However, the situation remains challenging due to the volatile security environment and movement restrictions.