This article provides an overview of the Syrian civil war’s evolution over 14 years since its inception. With the recent ousting of President Assad and Ahmad al-Sharaa now in power, the conflict continues to evolve with critical sectarian violence, foreign involvement, and challenges from ISIS and Kurdish factions. International responses vary, affecting the prospects for stability and unity in Syria.
Fourteen years have passed since nationwide protests erupted in Syria, leading to an intricately woven civil war. The latest significant change occurred three months ago when Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was ousted from Damascus, marking a dramatic shift in a conflict recognized as one of the deadliest of the 21st century. In his stead, the controversial Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, has taken leadership, having severed ties with extremist groups since 2016.
Despite Sharaa’s calls for national unity and peace and the dissolution of the Islamist faction Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, violence continues unabated. The swift downfall of Assad’s regime within just 11 days illustrated significant vulnerabilities in his government, compounded by the distraction of allied nations like Iran and Russia, both facing conflicts elsewhere.
Many Syrians have seemingly shifted their loyalty from Assad to Sharaa; however, recent retaliatory violence from Assad loyalists has reignited deadly sectarian clashes, resulting in approximately 1,400 civilian deaths, primarily among the Alawite community. Sharaa’s ability to manage the violent aftermath and his commitment to pluralism are under scrutiny as international condemnation surfaces.
Complicating matters further is the Kurdish situation. The U.S. administration currently seeks to mediate agreements between the interim government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has pressed for accountability regarding violence against minority groups, indicating a continued U.S. interest despite earlier disinterest expressed by former President Trump.
Turkey’s position remains crucial, particularly the relationship with the Kurdish-led SDF, which Ankara connects to the separatist PKK. The ongoing clashes between Turkey-aligned militias and Kurdish forces further highlight Sharaa’s challenges regarding divided loyalties in the region.
Israel distinguishes itself from the U.S. by prioritizing the rights of the Druze community, conducting military operations against former Assad loyalists, and establishing a military presence in southern Syria. Israeli actions, particularly in areas coveted by Druze communities, pose an indirect obstacle to Sharaa’s unification plans.
Meanwhile, the insurgent presence of ISIS persists, posing significant challenges for Sharaa’s interim government. Despite ISIS’s territorial losses, it continues to conduct operations across Syria and beyond. The United States has intensified its counter-ISIS operations as Sharaa must confront legacies of his previous affiliations with extremist groups, which he now needs to manage as leader.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the future of Syria remains uncertain, with numerous factions vying for influence amidst a backdrop of long-standing sectarian strife and international interventions. Sharaa’s leadership will be tested on multiple fronts, including managing external pressures and fostering stability in a deeply fractured society.
In conclusion, Syria’s civil war has entered its 14th year with significant shifts in leadership and ongoing violence. The ouster of President Assad and the rise of Ahmad al-Sharaa present new challenges amidst enduring sectarian conflicts. The international community remains divided, with varying strategies from powers like the U.S., Turkey, and Israel, further complicating the situation. The resurgence of ISIS adds to the instability, and the future of the nation continues to hang in the balance as Sharaa navigates through a turbulent landscape.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
