Syria After Assad: A New Chapter Unfolds
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The dramatic fall of Bashar al-Assad‘s regime in Syria has ushered in a new and uncertain era for the war-torn nation. On December 8th, 2024, rebel forces, backed by Turkey, launched a swift offensive that toppled the Assad government after thirteen years of brutal civil war. The aftermath is proving to be as complex and volatile as the conflict itself.
Following the swift victory, the new Syrian transitional government promptly faced the challenge of consolidating power and addressing the lingering threat of loyalist forces. On December 26th, a government operation was launched in the Tartus province to target militias linked to the deposed dictator. The state-run news agency, Sana, reported the operation, following deadly clashes the previous day in a region predominantly populated by Alawites, the same religious sect as Assad.
Sana reported the operation resulted in the “neutralization” of militia members. Meanwhile, the syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported arrests connected to the clashes in Jirbat al Maaza, where fourteen government soldiers where killed. The SOHR also noted Alawite demonstrations in the area.
Further complicating the situation, the new government announced the deployment of additional reinforcements to the Syrian coast.”The Military Operations Command sends more military reinforcements to the Syrian coast,” stated a Telegram message from the institution representing the various groups that overthrew Assad. The message offered no further details on the troop movements, which add to those already sent to Latakia and Tartus.
The Hunt for Assad Loyalists
The Military Operations Command,a coalition of Sunni factions led by the Levant liberation Organization (HTS) and supported by Turkey,is now tasked with securing the country. Their rapid success in ousting Assad, who had relied on support from russia, Iran, and pro-Iranian militias like Hezbollah, has left a power vacuum and a significant number of former Assad loyalists unaccounted for.
Reports from various news outlets and the SOHR indicate that many former Assad soldiers, disproportionately from the Alawite minority, have sought refuge in mountainous regions and villages following Assad’s escape to Russia. The SOHR specifically highlighted the presence of followers of former General Suhail al-Hasan, commander of Assad’s elite “Tiger” forces, and Mohamed Hanjo Hasan, implicated in the deaths of numerous prisoners. Both are high-priority targets for the new government.
The SOHR stated, “There are many followers of (former general) Suhail al Hasan,” and added, “There are also many fighters of (also former general) Mohamed Hanjo Hasan, responsible for the murder of many prisoners.”
The situation in Syria remains highly fluid and fraught with danger. the international community watches closely, bracing for the potential for further instability and the long road to rebuilding a nation shattered by years of conflict.
The Fragile Peace: Syria in the Wake of Assad’s Fall
Following the dramatic ouster of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, the country faces a precarious future. Rebel forces, backed by Turkey, successfully toppled the Assad government after a thirteen-year civil war, leaving a power vacuum and a nation scarred by conflict. The new Syrian transitional government struggles to consolidate its power and address the lingering threat of Assad loyalists, who are believed to be hiding in different parts of the country.
World Today News: Senior Editor Mark Anderson sits down with Dr. Amira hassan, Professor of Middle Eastern studies at Georgetown University, to discuss the unfolding situation in Syria.
The Fall of Assad: A Turning Point?
Mark Anderson: Dr. Hassan, the stunning collapse of the Assad regime came as a surprise to many. What factors led to this swift turn of events?
Dr. Amira Hassan: Several factors converged to create this perfect storm. The relentless international pressure, particularly from Turkey, sapped Assad’s dwindling resources. Concurrently, the rebels gained momentum, fuelled by a desire for change after years of oppression. Assad’s reliance on a narrow Alawite base further isolated him, while internal fractures within his own ranks contributed to his downfall.
Mark Anderson: What are the immediate implications of Assad’s departure for the Syrian people?
Dr. Amira Hassan: There is a sense of cautious hope,but also immense uncertainty. The brutality of the war has left deep scars.Millions have been displaced, infrastructure is shattered, and basic services are crippled. The new government faces the monumental task of rebuilding a nation ravaged by conflict and fostering a sense of national unity.
the Loyalists: A Resurgent Threat?
Mark Anderson: We’re seeing reports of clashes between the new government forces and Assad loyalists. How important is this threat, and what strategies are they employing?
Dr. Amira Hassan: The threat of loyalist resistance is very real, especially within Alawite-dominated regions.Many former Assad soldiers and militia members are hiding in mountainous areas or villages.They are likely receiving support from remnant pockets of the Syrian army and intelligence apparatus.
Mark Anderson: What are the challenges the new government faces in dealing with thes elements?
Dr. Amira Hassan: It’s a delicate balancing act. The new government needs to project strength and ensure security, but also avoid further alienating the Alawite community. The risk of reprisals and sectarian violence is a real concern.
International Implications: A New Power Dynamic
mark anderson: How do you see the international community responding to this evolving situation in Syria?
Dr. Amira Hassan: The fall of assad has created a power vacuum that several regional and international actors are eager to fill.Turkey’s role is particularly crucial, given its military involvement and longstanding rivalry with the Assad regime.
Mark Anderson: What are the potential flashpoints for future conflict?
Dr. Amira Hassan: The Kurdish issue remains a significant challenge. The Kurds, who fought alongside the rebels against Assad, now fear marginalization by the new Arab-dominated government. The risk of renewed fighting along the Turkish border is a serious concern.
Mark Anderson: Dr.Hassan, thank you for sharing your insightful analysis. The future of Syria hangs in the balance.
Dr. Amira Hassan: It is a critical time for Syria. The international community must work together to support the process of reconciliation, reconstruction, and ultimately, a lasting peace.
