The ongoing conflict in Syria, now in its thirteenth year, has brought about devastation on a massive scale – claiming over 350,000 lives, displacing millions, and shattering the once stable country into fragments. While the conflict had seemed to come to a standstill over the past few years, recent events have reignited tensions in the region.
Last week, armed groups launched an operation from Idlib, sparking a chain of events that has led to the collapse of the Syrian army. Joshua Landis, director of the Center for Middle East Studies at the University of Oklahoma, sheds light on the underlying factors contributing to this collapse.
One key driver behind the collapse of the Syrian army is the country’s struggling economy. Years of war have left the economy in tatters, with severe economic woes plaguing the nation. Additionally, harsh sanctions imposed on Syria have further crippled the economy, making it difficult for the government to maintain its military operations.
In addition to economic challenges, the Syrian army has also faced relentless attacks from various armed groups, including the Syrian rebels and opposition fighters. These attacks have put immense pressure on the army, further weakening its ability to defend against threats.
With the recent escalation of violence and the collapse of the Syrian army, the future of Syria remains uncertain. As the conflict continues to unfold, it is clear that the people of Syria continue to suffer the devastating consequences of this prolonged war.
Watch the video by Al Jazeera English
Video “Syrian army collapse driven by economic woes, sanctions, and attacks: Analysis” was uploaded on 12/08/2024 to Youtube Channel Al Jazeera English