Even as it is proclaiming a political strategy of “reconciliation” through local truces and aid to civilians, the Assad regime has renewed its long-standing siege on the Damascus suburb of Moadamiya.
Activists said that the Syrian military is demanding that Free Syrian Army fighters hand over weapons.
See Video & Photos From Moadamiyya As Regime Shuts Down Damascus Suburb Again
The closure of the only entrance to the town:
Qusai Zakarya, a prominent local activist who is now in exile in Beirut, said some workers and students have been allowed past the regime checkpoints. However, he said the Syrian forces were not only cutting off aid but also shelling Moadamiya and trying to sneak into the suburb.
State news agency SANA claimed “citizens…rejected the UN aid that the western countries attempt to politicize under several humanitarian names”, while insisting that “all foodstuff and consumer materials are available in the city” and expressing “satisfaction over the local reconciliation”.
Before and after last month’s Geneva “peace” conference ended in stalemate, the Assad regime — supported by its ally Russia — has proclaimed that the resolution of the conflict lies in local ceasefires, followed by renewal of aid to the besieged areas.
Some agreements have been reached in Damascus suburbs; however, the opposition claims they are the outcome of a “surrender or starve” policy.
Moadamiya endured a 15-month siege before a local truce was announced in January. Activists said that even then the Syrian military only permitted limited amounts of assistance.
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