Who are Syria fighting? This question has been at the heart of the ongoing conflict in Syria since the start of the civil war in 2011. The war has become increasingly complex, involving numerous factions with diverse motivations and goals. Understanding the various parties involved is crucial to grasp the full extent of the conflict and its implications for the future of Syria.
The first and most immediate adversary for the Syrian regime has been the Syrian opposition, which consists of various rebel groups and factions that rose up against President Bashar al-Assad’s government. These groups are united in their opposition to the Assad regime but differ in their ideologies and strategies. The most prominent among them are the Free Syrian Army (FSA), the Islamic State (ISIS), and the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG).
The Islamic State, also known as ISIS, emerged as a significant player in the conflict in 2014. Initially, ISIS sought to establish an Islamic caliphate in the region, but its brutal tactics and disregard for human rights have turned it into a global terror organization. The Syrian regime, along with its allies, has been fighting against ISIS for years, aiming to reclaim territory lost to the group.
Another significant adversary for Syria is Turkey, which has been engaged in a conflict with the Kurdish YPG. The YPG is an affiliate of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a separatist group that has been fighting for Kurdish autonomy in Turkey since the 1980s. Turkey views the PKK as a terrorist organization and has been targeting the YPG in Syria as part of its broader campaign against Kurdish separatism.
Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah have also played crucial roles in the conflict. Russia has been a strong ally of the Assad regime, providing military support and political backing. Iran has also supported the Syrian government, with both countries sharing interests in maintaining a pro-Shiite axis in the region. Hezbollah, the Lebanese Shiite militia, has fought alongside the Syrian regime, providing ground forces and logistical support.
The United States has been involved in the conflict as well, supporting various opposition groups and conducting air strikes against ISIS. However, the U.S. has also been critical of the Assad regime and has sought to prevent a complete victory for the Syrian government, fearing that such a victory would strengthen Iran’s influence in the region.
In conclusion, Syria is fighting against a complex array of adversaries, including the Syrian opposition, ISIS, Turkey, Russia, Iran, Hezbollah, and the United States. Each of these factions has its own interests and objectives, making the conflict in Syria a multifaceted and challenging issue for all parties involved. Understanding the dynamics of this conflict is essential for any attempt to find a peaceful resolution and bring an end to the suffering of the Syrian people.
