THREAD: In mid October, media sources reported that the Syrian Government will dismantle the 🇷🇺- backed 8th Brigade, which currently holds sway in portions of #Dara Governorate, and integrate it into the Government’s own command structure. 1/7
The 8th Brigade’s dissolution spells the end of an era in southern #Syria. The move is the most consequential to date in the Syrian Government’s continuing efforts to quell resistance in hotbeds of unrest in the restive south. 2/7
The 8th Brigade has been a key player in the region since its reconciliation in 2018, and the military formation offered hope to former opposition fighters who preferred to stay in their communities rather than displace to northern Syria 3/7
Through the group, #Russia has provided a semi-independent alternative to full reintegration into the Syrian Government’s command structure. 4/7
Now, the group’s operating space has disappeared, and 8th Brigade commander Ahmed al-Oudeh has, according to local sources, fled to #Jordan, fearful of the expanding reach of Syrian intelligence in areas where his forces were, until recently, dominant. 5/7
These developments may be welcome news in #Amman, which has pushed for greater stability on its northern border with Syria. 6/7
Looking ahead, by tightening its grip on the region, the Government of Syria will be able to impose heightened restrictions on communities and control former dissidents with impunity. 7/7
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