The Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor has once again found itself at the epicenter of fierce fighting. Militants from the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS, recognized as terrorist and banned in Russia) group have seized control of the city, which was previously under the control of Syrian government forces and pro-Iranian formations. Following the advance of opposition forces, Deir ez-Zor temporarily came under the control of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), but now the key region is in the hands of HTS.

Experts say the actions of the group, which has become the de facto ruling force in Syria since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, are raising serious concerns. Deir ez-Zor is strategically important due to its location in an oil-rich province, making it an important target for all sides in the conflict.

The situation in the region is complicated by the presence of American troops, who are unlikely to tolerate the expansion of HTS influence. Analysts suggest that the United States may undertake demonstrative strikes against concentrations of militants in order to maintain control over strategically important areas and contain the spread of HTS influence.

At the moment, there has been no official reaction from Washington to what happened. However, the US has previously carried out airstrikes on terrorist groups in Syria to support its interests and the interests of its allies. The likelihood of such actions against HTS being repeated remains high.

International observers point to the complexity of the developing situation. Apparently, stability in the SAR will not come in the coming years.