War Monitor: At Least 17 Killed in Clashes in Southern Syria
War Monitor: At Least 17 Killed in Clashes in Southern Syria
The Facts
At least 20 people were killed in clashes on Sunday in Syria's Southern Deraa province following an explosion killing a group of children, according to the the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
The dead reportedly include three family members of Ahmad al-Labbad, the alleged leader of an armed group who previously worked for a state security service, 12 fighters from the group and a civilian who was killed by a stray bullet.At least 17 people were killed in clashes on Sunday in Syria's Southern Deraa province following an explosion killing a group of children, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
The Spin
Waging war against his own people for 13 years, Syrian dictator Assad is also ultimately responsible for the latest killings in Daraa. Clashes have been escalating again for months, as the regime feels reinforced since the Arab League welcomed Assad back into the fold. Added to this is Russia, further undermining the UN- and Western-led efforts for change in Damascus. Until pressure on the Assad regime is ramped up again, the killing and dying in Syria will continue.
The latest casualties are a reminder that war is still raging in Syria, for which foreign powers are primarily responsible. Since 2011, certain countries seek to advance their geopolitical interests by destabilizing the country, but the ultimate goal of regime change failed. Syrians are demanding their country's full sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, including the withdrawal of US occupation forces. Until then, the fight for freedom and against terror will continue.
