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The Foreign Fighters File in the Syrian Arab Army: Risks of Expansion and Threat to Stability
In a development that raises concern and controversy, the current situation of foreign fighters in the Syrian Arab Army points to a trend that goes against the demands of the Syrian people and the international community. For several weeks, a new phase known as "reunion" has begun, with large numbers of families of foreign fighters from various nationalities, particularly from Central Asia, arriving in Syrian territory through southern Turkey's airports, especially Hatay Airport.
Over the past three weeks, 22 Uzbek families crossed the border into Syria via the Bab al-Hawa crossing. Estimates suggest that the number of foreign fighters in Syria is around 21,000, belonging to cross-border Islamic projects, representing extremist factions that include a faction affiliated with Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, while another faction is considered outside the authority of the group and has a more equal relationship than one of subordination.
After the regime lost control of several areas, Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham attempted to relocate these fighters to the coastal and Ghab regions, aiming to distance them from the Syrian capital and the Badia region, as there are fears they might integrate or collaborate with ISIS.
The resettlement of the families of these fighters in Syria poses a serious indicator that could turn the country into a focal point for global jihad in the future. The presence of a radical organization controlling the state and creating a safe jihadist environment could make Syria a hub for all those who hold extremist ideologies, reminiscent of 2014 when ISIS took control of cities like Raqqa and Mosul.
Today, Syria faces profound and complex challenges, grappling with thousands of political, economic, and social issues. Under these circumstances, it is not appropriate to engage in new adventures of this kind, which may exacerbate crises rather than resolve them.
Analysts observing the situation in Syria believe that the ruling authority in Damascus must recognize the seriousness of this situation. It is essential to find suitable mechanisms to address this issue instead of supporting it, as turning Syria into a place that attracts foreign fighters could have dire consequences for regional security and stability. The current situation requires a genuine and effective response that works to protect the country from potential risks that may arise as a result of these repercussions.
