In a fast-paced turn of events‚ Syrian rebels took control of Damascus bringing down the decades-old Assad regime. The quick-moving offensive (which started in late-november) surprised many observers with its speed and success
The rebel group led by Abu Mohammed al-Golani shared their attack plans with Turkey about half-a-year ago: this coordination proved crucial for the operations success. Turkish troops already stationed in north-west Syria didnt interfere with the advancing forces
The rebels timing was perfect — Assadʼs army was weak and his main supporters were dealing with other problems: Russia got busy elsewhere Iran faced issues and Hezbollah pulled back its fighters from Syria. The regimeʼs military had no fuel for tanks or planes because of wide-spread theft and corruption
That other path hasnt worked for years - so try ours. You dont have to do anything just dont intervene
The opposition forces took these cities in order:
* Aleppo (Syriaʼs second-largest city)
* Hama (fell on dec-5)
* Homs
* Damascus (captured on dec-8)
Turkey now stands as the strongest outside player in Syria with boots-on-ground and connections to rebel leaders. The countryʼs influence grew while Iranʼs power dropped — a major shift in middle-east politics. Turkish-backed forces also pushed Kurdish groups (which Turkey sees as terrorists) from some northern areas including Tel Refaat
Tayyip Erdoganʼs earlier attempts to talk with Bashar al-Assad failed completely. A Turkish official speaking in Doha said they “knew something was coming“ but claims Turkey didnt give direct approval for the attack