Southern Front (Syrian rebel group)

The Southern Front was a coalition of moderate Syrian rebel groups affiliated with the Free Syrian Army (FSA) that operated in southern Syria, primarily in the governorates of Daraa, Quneitra, and Rif Dimashq. Formed in February 2014, it aimed to unify various rebel factions under a more organized command structure and a unified political platform.

The Southern Front was generally considered to be more moderate and secular than some other rebel groups operating in Syria, particularly those with Salafist or jihadist ideologies. It received support from various international actors, including the United States and its allies, who provided non-lethal aid and, reportedly, some limited training and arms.

The coalition's stated goals included overthrowing the government of Bashar al-Assad and establishing a democratic, pluralistic Syria based on the principles of human rights and the rule of law. It engaged in military operations against Syrian government forces, pro-government militias, and other rebel groups, including those affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (ISIS).

Throughout its existence, the Southern Front faced numerous challenges, including internal divisions, competition from other rebel groups, and sustained military pressure from the Syrian government and its allies, particularly Russia. The group's influence gradually declined as the Syrian government regained control of territory in southern Syria.

By 2018, following a major offensive by the Syrian government, the Southern Front largely collapsed, with many of its fighters either surrendering, joining other rebel groups, or fleeing to other areas of Syria or abroad. The remnants of the group ceased to be a significant military force.