Syrian rebels have taken control of the city of Deraa, the symbolic site of the start of the uprising against President Bashar al-Assad in 2011. It is the fourth city lost to government forces in the past week, jeopardising the sustainability of the Assad regime. Rebel forces continue to advance northwards, closing in on the key city of Homs.
The capture of Deraa was reportedly the result of a deal in which the Syrian army agreed to withdraw its troops from the city. The deal guaranteed safe passage for the military to Damascus, about 100 kilometres north of Deraa.
Video footage that appeared on social media showed rebels travelling on motorbikes celebrating their victory with residents of the city. In the main square, people fired shots in the air expressing joy at the withdrawal of government forces.
Deraa, where the Syrian uprising began more than a decade ago, has important symbolic significance. Its loss not only weakens Damascus’ military position, but also demonstrates the deep political and social fissures in the country.
“The fall of Deraa is not just a military setback. It is an indicator that Assad is losing support even in the regions he was previously able to hold,” one expert notes.
The capture of four cities in a week shows the growing strength of rebel forces, which are operating simultaneously on several fronts. The rebels are advancing towards Homs, posing a serious threat to government forces. Homs, one of Syria’s largest cities, is considered a strategic node whose control is crucial to holding the centre of the country.
