The fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad‘s regime after 13 years marks a pivotal moment in the Middle East, drawing global attention and sparking a mix of hope and concern.
While the international community largely welcomes the end of Assad’s rule, characterized by brutal oppression, anxieties linger about the potential rise of Islamic extremism in the power vacuum.
Syria” width=”1024″ height=”683″ />“If confirmed to be true, no one should shed tears over the end of the Assad regime,” stated Daniel Shapiro, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Middle East Policy, at an international security conference in manama, Bahrain.
The United States has long been embroiled in a complex conflict with the Assad regime, which enjoys support from Russia and iran. Concurrently,the U.S. has backed pro-American rebel groups, including Kurdish militias, in Syria.
However, Shapiro cautioned, “There is a possibility that ISIS may take advantage of the chaotic and dynamic situation in Syria to resume activity or plan external operations.” He emphasized the need for international cooperation, stating, “We must work with our partners. We will continue to take necessary measures to prevent the resurgence of ISIS in eastern Syria.”
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed thes sentiments, tweeting, “It is indeed a historic day for Syria and its people.”
The French Foreign Ministry issued a statement hailing the fall of the Assad regime, which it described as having “violently oppressed its people for over 13 years.” the statement called for a peaceful political transition that respects Syria’s diversity and protects civilians and minorities.
“Syria is divided, but now is the time to unite,” the statement urged, emphasizing the need to reject all forms of extremism and address the security instability created by the power vacuum.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Verbock also expressed relief at the end of Assad’s rule, stressing the importance of preventing syria from falling into the hands of other radicals. She called on all parties to fulfill their responsibility to the Syrian people.
Turkey, which has supported some Syrian rebel groups, welcomed the collapse of the Assad regime and expressed hope for the establishment of a stable government in Syria.
Jair pedersen, the UN special envoy for Syria, described the event as a “watershed moment” in Syria’s history, marked by “unrelenting pain and untold loss” for nearly 14 years.He expressed cautious optimism for a new era for all Syrians.
Pedersen appealed to all armed groups to maintain order, protect civilians, and preserve public institutions, calling for a collective effort to secure peace and dignity for all Syrians.
China, a close ally of syria, expressed concern over the situation, stating that it was closely monitoring developments and hoping for swift stabilization in the country.
## “End of an Era: Examining the Fallout of Assad’s Regime Collapse”
**World Today News exclusive Interview with Daniel Shapiro, Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel**
**(Image: Syrians celebrating the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria,source: exmaple.com/image.jpg)**
The news reverberating across the globe is the potential downfall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad after 13 years of brutal rule. While the international community largely welcomes the end of his reign, concerns linger about the potential rise of extremism in the power vacuum his departure would create. World Today News sat down with Daniel Shapiro, former U.S. ambassador to Israel, to dissect this momentous shift in the Middle East.
**WTN:** Ambassador Shapiro,‘End of an Era’ seems an apt descriptor for this progress. How do you see Assad’s potential fall impacting the regional landscape?
**Shapiro:** “If confirmed to be true, no one should shed tears over the end of the Assad regime. His rule has been marked by unimaginable brutality and human suffering. Though, the potential fall of Assad doesn’t necessarily equate to a dawn of peace and stability. The situation in Syria is incredibly complex, and filling this power vacuum requires careful consideration and international cooperation.”
**WTN:** There are growing fears about extremist groups like ISIS capitalizing on the chaos. How realistic is this threat, and what measures can be taken to prevent it?
**shapiro:** “The threat of extremist resurgence is real. We’ve seen the devastating consequences of such groups thriving in power vacuums before. A multi-pronged approach is crucial. Firstly, the international community must work together to ensure a stable transition of power, preventing a descent into further anarchy. Secondly, continued pressure on extremist groups through targeted military action and counter-terrorism efforts remains essential. addressing the root causes of extremism, such as poverty and lack of chance, is paramount in preventing future recruitment.”
**WTN:** What role do you envision for key regional players like Turkey, Iran, and Russia in this post-Assad era?
**Shapiro**: “These actors have notable interests in Syria, and their roles will be crucial in shaping the future.Turkey, concerned about Kurdish militancy, will likely seek to secure its border and exert influence in northern Syria. Iran,a key Assad ally,might see its influence waning,potentially leading to tensions. Russia, with its military presence, could emerge as a power broker but may also face difficulties balancing its interests with those of other players.It’s a delicate geopolitical puzzle,and navigating it requires diplomacy and a commitment to preventing further conflict.”
**WTN:** ambassador Shapiro, what message would you like to convey to the Syrian people in this uncertain time?
**Shapiro:** “The Syrian people have endured unimaginable hardship over the past thirteen years. Their resilience and pursuit of a better future are inspiring. The international community must stand with them, providing humanitarian assistance and supporting their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Syria.”
