JEDDAH: Syrian opposition fighters’ morale is high, and they are defending their people and trying to lift the siege imposed on the Damascus suburb of Eastern Ghouta by the regime and Iranian militias, opposition spokesman Yahya Al-Aridi told Arab News on Tuesday. His remarks followed reports of fighting inside a military installation near the Damascus suburb of Harasta. Syria-based activist Mazen Al-Shami said the regime brought in reinforcements overnight and is trying to reach soldiers trapped in the installation.
An official with the Ahrar Al-Sham opposition group said the regime is negotiating the passage of its trapped fighters. Al-Aridi termed it “a big blow” to the regime that belies “its claims that it’s in control of the country.” He added: “The regime is nothing more than a tool used by Iran and Russia to further their goals at the expense of Syrians’ safety and future.”
Al-Aridi said Tuesday’s Cabinet reshuffle “is a reflection of frustration with the corruption of the regime’s men and the state of chaos it’s in. This regime is in a state of disarray.” President Bashar Assad replaced his defense minister for the first time since 2012, appointing Gen. Ali Abdullah Ayoub, 65. The industry and information ministers were also replaced.
The UN says regime forces are besieging nearly 400,000 people in Eastern Ghouta. “The UN keeps saying it’s trying (to alleviate their suffering), but the proof of the pudding is in the eating,” said Al-Aridi. “We urge the international community to apply necessary pressure on the regime to save civilians.” Asked what steps can be taken, he said: “Implement UN Security Council resolutions, especially regarding a political transition that would rid Syria of tyranny and dictatorship.”