DAMASCUS: In a dramatic turn of events, the Syrian civil war came to an unexpected conclusion in December 2024, as opposition forces swiftly captured major cities, including Aleppo, Homs, and Damascus, effectively ending Bashar al-Assad’s 13-year rule. The Assad regime, which had controlled Syria since 1971, collapsed with minimal resistance, leading to Assad’s flight to Russia with his family.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the downfall of Assad’s regime was marked by chaotic scenes, including mass surrenders and the liberation of prisoners from the notorious Sednaya prison. As the world turns its attention to Syria’s future, discussions have arisen about the potential impact of a U.S. proposal that Assad ultimately rejected. The proposal reportedly involved the lifting of sanctions against Syria in exchange for cutting off Hezbollah’s supply routes through Syrian territory. However, Assad’s allies, Iran and Hezbollah, refused the offer, which contributed to the regime’s downfall.
The proposal and i
ts rejection underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, with accusations of Western double standards and strategic interests taking precedence over human rights concerns. This situation raises questions about the West’s willingness to negotiate with regimes accused of human rights violations when it suits their geopolitical objectives.
As the region undergoes transformative changes, including the recent conflict between Hamas and Israel, the power dynamics in the Middle East continue to evolve. The events in Syria signal an end to the “Arab Spring” era and highlight the intricate balance of interests among global and regional powers. The future of Syria remains uncertain, with its territorial integrity and governance structure still in question. The developments suggest that the Middle East, as a whole, is entering a new phase in its history.