The Syrian National Army: Formation and Objectives
The Syrian National Army (SNA) is a military coalition formed in 2017, comprising various factions opposed to the Assad regime in Syria. Established with the support of Turkey, the SNA aims to unify these factions under a single command to enhance military effectiveness and secure liberated territories from external and internal threats. The initiative marked a significant shift from fragmentation to a more organized military structure, reflecting the ongoing struggle of the Syrian opposition since the revolution began in 2011.
The SNA's formation was spearheaded by Jawad Abu Hatab, the former head of the Syrian interim government, who sought to appoint a defense minister to oversee the integration of military groups. Despite initial challenges, an agreement was reached in December 2017 to officially establish the SNA, which included 36 military groups under the umbrella of the Free Syrian Army. This coalition has since evolved, now comprising 41 factions divided into three main corps, with a focus on unifying and training military forces to confront the Assad regime and terrorist organizations.
Key Military Operations and Recent Developments
The SNA has been involved in several significant military operations aimed at securing territory and combating adversaries. Notable operations include Operation Olive Branch, launched in January 2018, which targeted Kurdish forces in Afrin, and Operation Peace Spring in October 2019, aimed at establishing a safe zone for Syrian refugees by targeting the People's Protection Units and the Islamic State.
Most recently, on November 30, 2024, the SNA initiated Operation Dawn of Freedom, targeting the Kurdistan Workers' Party and the Assad regime. This operation coincided with a broader offensive that led to the control of key cities, including Idlib and Aleppo, and ultimately the capital, Damascus. Reports suggest that President Bashar al-Assad fled the country as opposition forces advanced, marking a potential turning point in the Syrian conflict.
