The Syrian rebel coalition is a diverse group of Islamist and moderate factions united in their fight against the Assad regime, ISIS, and Iran-backed militias. Key players in the coalition include Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS) and the Syrian National Army (SNA). HTS was founded by Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, a former fighter for al Qaeda, but despite efforts to distance himself from extremist groups, it remains on a US-designated terrorist list. The SNA includes factions funded by Turkey and aims to overthrow the Assad regime.
Complications arise as some rebel forces also battle Kurdish fighters, including those affiliated with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a group considered a terrorist organization by Turkey. Meanwhile, Druze fighters from Syria’s southern minority have joined the conflict, taking control of cities such as Daraa and As-Suwayda.
The rebel coalition’s unity is marked by these diverse elements, but its shared goal remains: to counter Assad’s regime and extremist forces in the region.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/syria-civil-war-12-08-2024/index.html