15,000-Strong People's Resistance Army Gathers Across Syria Border in Turkey
There are reports that a group of up to 15,000 insurgents and army defectors from Syria are gathering across the border in Turkey.
The national “Syrian Free Army” is attempting to become the military wing of the Syrian people’s resistance to the regime.
In an interview with Britain’s Sunday Telegraph the leader of the Syrian Free Army, Col. Riad al-Assad said: "We are the future army of the new Syria. We are not in league with any particular sect, religion or political party. We believe in protecting all elements of Syrian society.”
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The defectors come from all parts of the Syrian security forces, from Republican Guard, intelligence officers and Special Forces. Col. Al-Assad also explained that "high quality operations against government soldiers and security agents" were currently underway.
Col. Al-Assad expressed that his “fighters protect the borders of dissident towns and villages, and attack soldiers who gun down peaceful demonstrators. We are armed with guns and ammunition stolen from the regime.”
This week the violence showed no signs of letting up. Unconfirmed reports claim that 15 soldiers of the regime were killed by deserters as well as nine members of the minority Alawite sect which Assad belongs.
Allowing the SFA gather its forces in Turkey shows the growing discontent that Turkish Premier, Recep Tayipp Erdogan, has for the Syrian dictator. Assad’s talk of reform and subsequent inaction has caused tension between the two.
Turkey expressed that its formal position has been one of humanitarian aid only.
The recent agreement between Syria and the Arab League to remove troops from the streets seems extremely fragile with an attack Thursday when a reported 20 civilians were killed. It will be put to the test once again on Friday when mass protests are scheduled at the conclusion of Friday prayers.
A council member speaking anonymously confirmed that discussions were taking place.
"Our commitment is, and has always been, peaceful resolution, but our patience has a limit,” the source said. "It depends on the political developments among the Arab League, the Middle East and the International Community.”
