Syria: Rebels agree to surrender enclave in Homs province May 2

Event

Syrian opposition rebel fighters agreed to surrender control of their enclave and heavy weaponry in Homs province to pro-government forces on Wednesday, May 2. The Russia-brokered ceasefire comes after heavy bombardment and a siege implemented by Syrian government forces. Notably, under the agreement, rebels will withdraw from the towns of Houla, Rastan, and Talbiseh to the north of the city of Homs. Rebel fighters who do not wish to reside under state control will be bussed to remaining rebel-held areas in Idlib province beginning Saturday, May 5.

Context

Pro-government forces have retaken control of significant territory held by opposition rebels in recent weeks. Notably, in mid-April Syrian government forces wrested full control of Douma, the last rebel-held city in the Eastern Ghouta suburban area of Damascus, from Jaysh Al-Islam rebel fighters.

Syria remains enmeshed in a complex civil war that started between the Assad government and opposition forces in March 2011. Today, the conflict in Syria involves many parties, including the Syrian government, the Russian government, the Iranian government, the Turkish government, a US-led coalition, and numerous armed groups on the ground (including the Islamic State) with competing goals.

Advice

Due to extremely poor security conditions, Western governments generally advise against all travel to Syria, with some banning travel to the country. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to any travel to Syria.