Written by Lisa Muirimi
Rebel forces in southern Syria have reportedly seized control of most of the Deraa region, the birthplace of the 2011 uprising against President Bashar al-Assad.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitor, claims that rebels now control over 90% of the area, with only Sanamayn still under government control.
Local factions captured several military sites after intense battles with government forces.
Reports suggest a deal was struck for the Syrian army to withdraw, providing military officials safe passage to Damascus, although these claims remain unverified.
Deraa holds strategic and symbolic significance as a provincial capital near key Jordanian border crossings and the site of the first pro-democracy protests.
The renewed conflict has prompted Jordan to close its border and advise citizens to leave Syria immediately.
Meanwhile, clashes in Suweida have forced government officials to flee, with Druze militias opposing Assad’s regime.
In the north, Islamist-led rebels are advancing toward Homs, a critical city linking Damascus to the Mediterranean coast.
The escalating violence has displaced over 370,000 people in a week, with the UN warning of worsening conditions for civilians.
Assad’s forces face mounting challenges, as key allies Russia and Iran are less engaged amid shifting regional dynamics.
