Syrian government gain ground over ISIS, shoved U.S. backed rebels away

Syrian government soldiers along with allied militias have pushed back and regained a large portion of ISIS territory in Syria's southern desert. Syrian troops also pushed back U.S. backed rebels fighting Assad's regime in the process.

What is the impact of the success of Syrian forces?

Syrian Government forces are massively backed by Russia and Iran. The success of their attacks gives strength to Assad's regime, which the United States tries to topple through supporting anti-Assad fighters and Kurdish troops.

Assad's forces have taken back a vast territory in the southern desert in Syria from ISIS and gained a tactical advantage over the region. Also, Syrian forces with the help of Russian air strikes have taken back the Damascus-Palmyra road, a vital highway from ISIS control.

Because of this victory, the Syrian forces have regained control over the mineral and oil resources located in the contested desert. This will provide better resources for Assad's regime and possible resources Russia and Iran can take advantage of.

How will this affect U.S. policy in Syria and the justification for spending on "freedom" rebels?

The major Syrian victory is a huge setback for U.S. plans in the region. After U.S. strikes on a Syrian convoy escorted by Iranian militia, the victory of pro-Assad forces emboldened the sense of vindication for their cause.

However, despite this setback, the United States continues on to finance rebel forces battling Assad's regime. Even though U.S. officials admitted that the Syrian victory poses a threat to American-backed forces in the area. The main concern now for the Pentagon is the upcoming offensive to take back ISIS-held territory in eastern Syria and northern Iraq.

What is the next plan of the United States on the impending attack on Raqqa?

The main focus of the United States as of the moment is preparing the Kurdish forces on their attack into ISIS territory. Though Turkey is voicing out stringent protests over the U.S. move of arming Kurdish troops, the training and preparations are gaining pace.

Raqqa is considered the capital of ISIS and its taking will be both a tactical and symbolic victory. As the start of the invasion into ISIS territory is set this June, the mounting tension in this part of the Middle East heightens.

The United States must also take into consideration the movements of Russia and Iran, which are becoming more involved in Syria in the past few months. The power struggle in the destroyed country is far from over and many more people will unfortunately perish.