The rapid advance of rebel forces has exposed significant weaknesses within the Syrian military, including poor training and lack of morale among soldiers.
Corruption and mismanagement within the military hierarchy have contributed to the regime's inability to effectively respond to the rebel offensive.
As the regime's military capabilities continue to decline, further advances by rebel forces may lead to a complete overhaul of power dynamics in Syria.
Increased dissatisfaction among soldiers could lead to more defections and a potential uprising against the Assad regime.
Defeat of the Syrian Army: Insights from Soldiers' Accounts
In a recent report by Le Monde, Syrian soldiers have recounted their experiences during the rapid advance of rebel forces that led to the downfall of the regime of President Bashar al-Assad. Many soldiers expressed that they were not adequately informed about the rebels' movements, suggesting a lack of communication and leadership within the military ranks. The soldiers described a chaotic atmosphere as they faced a well-coordinated offensive from the rebel alliance led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.
One soldier, Hassan, who served as a driver and bodyguard for a State Security officer, shared his disbelief at the speed of the regime's collapse. He recounted how, after hearing that Assad had fled, he removed his military uniform and returned home. Another conscript, Hisham, revealed the grim reality of forced conscription and the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers ordered to fire upon civilians. Many soldiers resorted to bribing their superiors to escape the front lines, highlighting the pervasive corruption within the military.
Factors Contributing to the Regime's Collapse
The report also delves into the systemic issues plaguing the Syrian military, including reliance on poorly trained conscripts and the influence of foreign allies. Soldiers noted that decisions were often made by Iranian and Russian officers, undermining the authority of Syrian commanders. Ammar Hussein, a conscript, pointed out that many soldiers lacked basic training and were ill-prepared for combat, which contributed to the army's inability to respond effectively to the rebel offensive.
Furthermore, the soldiers expressed growing resentment towards the Assad regime, fueled by poor living conditions and low salaries. With many soldiers earning less than $40 a month, morale within the ranks has significantly deteriorated. The combination of these factors has led to a situation where the Syrian army, once a formidable force, has collapsed under pressure, marking a significant turning point in the ongoing conflict.
