The Syrian Civil War’s Impact on ISIS and Russia’s Strained Resources
The Syrian civil war may lead to a resurgence of ISIS amid Russia’s military involvement, straining their resources in Ukraine. Experts argue for non-intervention from the West, cautioning that previous attempts at influence have failed and could exacerbate humanitarian crises.
The ongoing Syrian civil war has escalated concerns regarding the potential resurgence of ISIS and the implications of Russia’s military involvement. Professor Michael Clarke, an expert featured on the Sitrep podcast, contends that the Kremlin’s support for Bashar al-Assad may lead to resource constraints in Ukraine. He notes, “They bomb civilians and, if it doesn’t work, the Russians will have to decide whether to let Assad go,… or to divert troops…” Thus, the conflict in Syria could further stretch Russian military capabilities.
Moreover, Dr. Karen von Hippel, Director General at the Royal United Services Institute, warns that the Islamic State could exploit any power vacuum resulting from the ongoing instability. Although significantly weakened by previous military actions, she states, “They will exist… and they can come together again if they… find an opening.” The rise of groups such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) is another concern, as they seek to capitalize on Russian distractions in Ukraine and Iranian vulnerabilities due to Israeli actions.
To mitigate further escalation, Professor Clarke advises that Western powers refrain from intervention, asserting that they “lost any leverage over what happens in Syria… in 2013.” He highlights the ineffectiveness of prior Western actions, suggesting that maintaining a non-intervention stance is essential. He emphasizes that next steps will likely only yield outcomes slightly better than the status quo, urging for a focus on humanitarian concerns rather than geopolitical maneuvers.
The Syrian civil war, ongoing since 2011, has become entangled with broader geopolitical dynamics involving various global powers. Russia has been a key playersupporting the Assad regime, complicating efforts to stabilize the region while combating ISIS. The question of whether ISIS can regenerate amidst this chaos remains pertinent, especially given the recent shifts in power dynamics and the exploitation of any resulting vacuums. Experts underscore the significant consequences of these developments on international security and regional stability.
In summary, the Syrian civil war poses a dual threat, potentially reviving ISIS while stretching Russia’s military resources as it engages in Ukraine. Experts recommend that the West exercise caution and maintain distance from Syrian affairs, recognizing that past interventions have diminished their influence. The landscape remains volatile, and without careful navigation, the humanitarian implications could become increasingly severe.
Original Source: www.forcesnews.com
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