The advance of Syrian rebels toward Damascus has highlighted divisions within the regular army. As the Islamist rebel coalition moves dangerously close to the capital, the soldiers’ loyalty to President Bashar al-Assad is increasingly being questioned. Recent events on the ground have revealed a malaise within the Syrian troops, who appear to be grappling with internal divisions over their loyalty to the regime in place.
Gauthier Rybinski, an expert in international affairs, points out that Syrian soldiers appear to be gradually losing their attachment to the president. This questioning of the loyalty of the regular armed forces could prove crucial in resolving the Syrian conflict. Indeed, a divided and weakened army risks compromising the regime’s ability to maintain its authority and repel the rebel advance.
The formation of a coalition of movements opposed to Bashar al-Assad also complicates the political situation in Syria. International alliances, particularly with Russia and Iran, could be tested by the rise of the rebels. The question remains as to how these allies of the Syrian regime will react and continue to support them in the event of increasing military pressure on Damascus.
In this context of tensions and uncertainties, the outcome of the Syrian conflict remains uncertain. The potential defection of loyalist soldiers and the repercussions on Bashar al-Assad’s leadership could mark a decisive turning point in the conflict. The international community, for its part, is faced with difficult choices as the situation in Syria continues to deteriorate.
Ultimately, the loyalty of the Syrian regular army to President Bashar al-Assad is now subject to legitimate questions. The evolution of the fighting and alliances on the ground could redraw the balance of power and significantly influence the outcome of the conflict in Syria. The political future of the country and the stability of the region depend in part on how these issues are managed in the coming months.