With 150,000 soldiers… A federal Syrian army will soon be formed

Anas al Sheikh, known as “Abu Zuhair al Shami” and commander-in-chief of the Syrian Independent Counter-Terrorism Service, revealed that arrangements are in place to form a “Federal army in Syria”.

The army will be led by and comprise a Sunni majority, but will also include various Syrian components.

Anas al Sheikh said the new formation will comprise approximately 150,000 trained fighters whose primary mission is to prevent the partition of Syria, which he believes is moving toward “administrative decentralization” that grants regions broad powers, while sovereign issues remain tied to the central government in Damascus.

He described the anticipated army as a “supra-constitutional” force, not subject to the current transitional authority but rather monitoring it and preventing its encroachment on Syrians.

He pointed out that there was an international green light, especially from the United States, to form this army that transcends sects and affiliations.

He explained that the army wouldn’t interfere in the political decisions of the transitional authority as long as it adhered to its duties, stressing that its role would be entirely internal, focused on resolving any military conflict, even if it involved government forces loyal to the regime.

According to Anas al sheikh, the tasks of the new Federal army will include: Imposing security and stability after the Syrian government’s inability to control security, and creating a safe investment environment that allows global companies to enter and stimulate the economy.

Also, resolving internal conflicts and intervening to cease fire in any region, combating terrorist organizations such as ISIS, extremist groups, and undisciplined factions, protecting minorities and vulnerable groups and ensuring freedom of belief and expression, prevent demographic change and confront any ideological faction that attempts to control society, and applying international standards in detention centers and prisons and ensuring that those involved are brought to justice.

Ana al sheikh indicated that the new Syrian Federal army will be divided into specialized units, including counter-terrorism forces, assault forces, and conflict resolution forces, relying on secrecy, speed, and surprise in carrying out missions.