What happened in Basra al-Sham: Power struggle between the Eighth Brigade and Public Security.

In a scene reminiscent of years of division and conflict, the city of Bosra al-Sham in the eastern countryside of Daraa witnessed serious security incidents that almost sparked internal strife among the locals. This was following limited clashes between elements of the Eighth Brigade affiliated with the "Fifth Corps" and the General Security forces, over the pursuit and arrest of a local leader named Bilal al-Droubi. However, what happened in Bosra was not just a traditional security clash. Testimonies from inside the city revealed that General Security forces used provocative language and direct insults against the city's residents during the raids, leading to an escalation of popular anger. Many women took to the streets to protect their children and prevent an open confrontation, which indeed occurred. Ahmed al-Awda in the Spotlight The prominent figure in the scene is Ahmed al-Awda, the commander of the Eighth Brigade and a former officer in the ranks of the Free Syrian Army, who is now considered one of the strongest military figures in the southern region. Since joining the Fifth Corps, al-Awda has provided protection for the eastern countryside of Daraa from weapon chaos and lawlessness, rejecting any attempts to settle political or tribal scores at the expense of civilians. However, this protection was not welcomed by everyone. The relationship between the Eighth Brigade and some security agencies remained tense, especially amid mutual accusations regarding sensitive issues such as arms and drug smuggling operations and settling old scores, making Ahmed al-Awda a constant target for pressure and marginalization attempts. Inter-Residents Strife: A Looming Danger What is concerning in Bosra today is not just the contained clash intervened by city dignitaries, but the emerging division among the residents of the region. Some support the Eighth Brigade as the protector of land and honor, while others see it as an extension of post-2018 settlements. The provocative language used by some General Security elements during the raids, labeling the city's residents as traitors or submissive, has ignited real tensions that could escalate into internal conflict if not contained quickly. Calls for Calm and Disarmament Amid these circumstances, calls for calm and holding accountable those involved in incitement or mistreatment of Bosra's residents have emerged from local leaders and tribal elders. They emphasize that stability will not be achieved through provocations or settling scores, but through dialogue, honesty, and resetting the relationship between residents and security agencies to preserve everyone's dignity. In conclusion: What happened in Bosra al-Sham is not a passing event. It is a real warning that southern Syria is still susceptible to ignition at any moment, and any attempt to undermine local balance centers like the "Eighth Brigade" may reopen the doors to chaos. Therefore, only the wise can save Daraa from a crisis brewing quietly, and ignoring it today may cost everyone dearly.