Bringing loyalist and opposition factions together: The prospects for reconciliation in new Syria
Middle East InstituteApr 15, 2022
The Facts
At least 18 soldiers were killed and 27 injured on Thursday when an explosive device detonated on a military bus in the Damascus countryside, according to local Syrian media.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack and Syrian authorities haven't directly commented on it as of yet.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The war in Syria began when the Assad regime brutally cracked down on peaceful protesters calling for freedom and dignity. His country lies in ruin and violence continues - even in Damascus, which was cleared of rebel forces in 2018. Indeed, some analysts are even saying that the opposition may soon see a resurgence.
Establishment-critical narrative
This attack against the government is another terrorist operation by the so-called "opposition." Extremists also attacked Syrian government forces in other parts of the country. Thankfully, the government can manage such attacks and maintain Syria's stability and security - including from the meddling of actors undermining Assad's legitimate government.