Part 5/7:
The current situation presents serious humanitarian concerns. Syrian civilians have already been enduring the hardships associated with sanctions and a decimated economy since the peaceful protests began in 2011. The civilian population's struggles for survival are exacerbated by the ominous uncertainties of ongoing warfare.
Doyle points out that civilians are likely to “bunker down” in response to the escalating threat, fearing both reprisal attacks from the regime and potential bombings in liberated areas like Hama. Furthermore, with the prospect of rebel forces advancing closer to Damascus, the fear of increased violence looms large.