L.A. Times: The fate of millions in doubt as Syria prepares for final showdown with rebels
No one planned for this verdant region in Syria’s northwest to become the site of the rebels’ last stand.
But with the Syrian government preparing for a multi-front offensive it hopes will provide a path for finally ending a grinding civil war, the fate of Idlib province and its 3 million residents is now the subject of diplomatic jockeying among the world powers that have had a hand in the war.
As government forces overpowered opposition enclaves one by one, they offered defeated rebels and their families a choice: Lay down their arms and accept government rule, or go to Idlib, which borders Turkey.
Many chose Idlib, doubling the size of the province and turning it into a dumping ground for opposition militants.
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More News On Syria Preparing For A Final Showdown With Rebels In Their Last Major Stronghold
Forces gather for Syria’s final showdown, with the fate of millions hanging in the balance -- SCMP/AP
Syrian army preparing phased Idlib assault: source -- Reuters
Russia says militants in Syria's Idlib province need liquidating -- Reuters
Russia masses huge force off Syrian coast for final assault on rebels in Idlib -- The Independent
US, Russia engage in war of words as Syria attack looms -- Al Jazeera
Syria, Turkey, Russia and U.S. to Square Off in Idlib With Millions of Civilians in the Crosshairs -- Haaretz
Russia readies for Idlib campaign with fake news and major naval build-up -- Kack Moore, The National
