The uprising against the government of Syria, headed by the dictatorship of Bashar Hafez al-Assad, began in 2011 as part of the broader Arab Spring that saw millions of people rise up in North Africa and West Asia against repression, exploitation and corruption.

The Syrian government responded by shooting at the civilian demonstrators. This militarised the conflict and soon various regional and imperialist powers got involved in a bid to squash the uprising and gain influence.

After 7 years, the government, with massive Russian and Iranian military aid, has regained the upper hand. Currently one of the most brutal battles is happening in East Ghouta, just outside Damascus. We spoke to Monther Alhamdoosh, a Syrian activist with the Australian Syrian Association Victoria on the conflict and the desperate situation for civilians.

Asia Pacific Currents provides updates of labour struggles and campaigns from the Asia Pacific region. It is produced by Australia Asia Worker Links, in the studio of 3CR Radio in Melbourne, Australia