Part 17
Written by: Abu Hajar al-Kurdi
The Capture of Al-Bukamal by ISIS and the Continued Crimes Against Ahl al-Sunnah in Syria:
Following the spread of its influence among Ahl al-Sunnah in the city of Al-Mayadin, ISIS seized control of Al-Bukamal in 2014. Due to its strategic location as a border city connecting Iraq and Syria, as well as a vital route for military supplies between the two countries, Al-Bukamal held significant importance for the Syrian revolutionaries, the Assad regime, and ISIS.
When the Mujahideen gained control of the city and the Nusayri regime failed to reclaim it, the regime sought assistance from ISIS. Through deception, ISIS brought this strategic city under its control.
Following the capture of Al-Bukamal, ISIS extended its control to other regions through deceit and manipulation, occupying numerous cities. However, as ISIS began retreating from various areas of Syria, Al-Bukamal remained its last significant stronghold. The following sections will detail the collapse of ISIS in both Syria and Iraq.
Strategic Importance of Al-Bukamal
1. Geographical Location: Positioned on the Syria-Iraq border, Al-Bukamal serves as a critical junction, linking both countries via the Al-Qa’im–Al-Bukamal route.
2. The Land Route of the Rafidah’s Schemes:
The city plays a crucial role in the land route connecting Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon, making it a focal point for regional power dynamics.
3. Military Significance: As one of ISIS’s last strongholds in Syria, Al-Bukamal later became a base for resistance forces following ISIS’s retreat.
4. Economic Importance: Its proximity to Deir ez-Zor’s oil and gas resources and its role as a major trade route between Syria and Iraq add to its economic significance.
5. A Battleground for Regional and Global Powers: Due to its strategic location, Al-Bukamal remains a site of competition among both regional and international powers.
Considering these factors, Al-Bukamal continues to hold immense importance within the regional dynamics of Syria.
