The conflict has left more than 350,000 people dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Millions more have been displaced and the country lies in ruins. Revolt, repression In March 2011 unprecedented protests break out to demand civil liberties and the release of political prisoners after four decades of repressive rule by the Assad dynasty. The regime represses demonstrations but rallies continue. In July a defecting army colonel sets up the Turkey-based rebel Free Syrian Army (FSA). Air strikes, Hezbollah, Iran In March 2012 regime forces retake control of the third city Homs, which had fallen into the hands of the rebels. It carries out other bloody operations, notably in the central city of Hama, after massive anti-regime protests. In July FSA fighters launch a battle for Damascus but the government holds firm. From 2013 regime helicopters and planes unleash crude barrel bombs on rebel zones. The same year Iran-backed Lebanese Shiite militant group … [Read more...] about Syria: seven years of conflict