Major General Xana stated that the situation in Dar’aa and Suwaydaa is a unique case not under the “Counter-Offensive” operation but rather falls under the “Southern Operations Room,” which has a different structure.
The military and strategic expert also emphasized the importance of understanding the central focus of Syrian forces and their priorities. “Do they want to defend Homs to protect the coast and Damascus, or will the major battle take place in the capital?” he asked.
It was also reported that armed opposition groups have managed to take control of most areas in the far western parts of Damascus, near the Lebanese border. Xana pointed out that this area was a site of battles involving Hezbollah during the Syrian uprising.
Commenting on recent developments, he questioned: “Is this an attempt by the opposition to besiege Damascus and engage in a decisive battle, either through negotiations or military operations?”
He noted that the armed opposition needs different capabilities and military equipment than those used in Hama and Aleppo, as the previous actions in those cities quickly defeated the Syrian army. Additionally, the capital Damascus holds significant symbolic and political importance for the Syrian leadership and unique legal standing under international laws.
Xana described the battle for Damascus as a “life-or-death struggle” for the Syrian leadership and their broader domain.
