Within two weeks, most of Iraq's cities and governorates fell, either entirely or largely, to rebel forces. Notwithstanding rebel gains, the revolution was held back by internal divisions, the overall passivity of Baghdadis, and the lack of anticipated American support (there was some help in the south from Iran). Saddam's regime suppressed the rebellions with force to maintain power, while the rebels were defeated by loyalist forces spearheaded by the elite Republican Guard. During these few weeks of unrest, tens of thousands of people died. Nearly two million people became refugees.