Why in the News?

In a significant development for West Asia, the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has seized control of Damascus, declaring the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad. This marks the end of over 13 years of civil war in Syria and Assad’s authoritarian regime. Assad and his family have reportedly fled to Moscow, according to Kremlin sources.

Syrian opposition fighters ride along the streets in the aftermath of the opposition's takeover

About Syria Civil War

• Origins of the Conflict (2011):
  • It began with dissatisfaction over unemployment, corruption, and lack of political freedom.
  • Inspired by the ‘Arab Spring’ uprisings, peaceful protests started in March 2011.
  • The government's violent crackdown on protests led to nationwide uprisings, escalating into a full-scale war.
• Key Developments:
  • 2012: UN Geneva peace talks proposed a transition plan for President Assad’s removal, but progress stalled.
  • 2016: Talks in Astana established ‘de-escalation zones,’ which were later violated by regime airstrikes.
  • 2018: Sochi talks sponsored by Russia failed due to the opposition’s refusal to participate without Assad’s removal.
  • 2020: Russia and Turkey brokered a temporary ceasefire, reducing violence but not ending the conflict.
• Current Escalations:
  • In November 2023, HTS took control of key areas in Aleppo, disrupting routes between Aleppo and Damascus.
  • Syrian and Russian forces responded with airstrikes, marking the most significant escalation since 2020.
• Humanitarian Crisis:
  • Millions of Syrians are displaced, many sheltering in communal buildings like schools.
  • Millions rely on humanitarian aid to survive, facing harsh winters and inadequate shelter.
  • Thousands continue to flee frontline areas, particularly in northeastern Syria.
• Complex Power Dynamics:
  • Multiple groups involved, including:
    • Government forces supported by Russia and Iran.
    • Opposition groups supported by Turkey, Western nations, and Gulf Arab states.
    • Other players like HTS, Islamic State, Kurdish forces, and the Free Syrian Army.
  • No clear frontline; the war involves shifting territories and fractured alliances.
• Impact on Civilians:
  • Civilians are caught between warring factions, with no consistent safe zones.
  • Displacement, economic hardship, and the threat of violence continue to devastate the population.
• International Role:
  • Russia and Iran back Assad’s regime, while Western nations and Turkey support the opposition.
  • International peace efforts have largely failed to bring lasting resolution.