What's happened
The recent collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria marks a significant shift in Middle Eastern geopolitics. As rebel forces swiftly captured Damascus, analysts weigh the implications for regional stability, U.S. interests, and the future of Syrian governance amidst a power vacuum.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Independent highlights the cautious optimism surrounding the regime's fall, noting that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu claims credit for the outcome, while experts warn against premature conclusions about Syria's future. Professor Yossi Mekelberg from Chatham House emphasizes the uncertainty of who will control Syria next, stating, 'When a regime of 54 years has completely shuttered and gone, any prediction would be almost irresponsible.'
In contrast, the New York Times discusses the internal factors leading to Assad's downfall, attributing it to his regime's rigidity and failure to adapt to societal changes. The article notes that Israel's military actions significantly weakened Iranian capabilities in the region, contributing to the regime's collapse.
Business Insider UK underscores the strategic implications for the U.S., with analysts suggesting that the overthrow of Assad presents an opportunity to diminish Iranian influence. However, Chris Doyle warns that the U.S. lacks a clear strategy for engagement in the post-Assad landscape, stating, 'All of a sudden, I think they're dusting down documents.'
The Japan Times and South China Morning Post both emphasize the rapidity of the rebel advance, with the latter noting that the offensive was unexpected even for HTS leaders. This swift change in control raises questions about the future governance of Syria and the potential for further conflict among rival factions.
How we got here
Bashar al-Assad's regime faced increasing pressure from both internal dissent and external military actions, particularly from Israel. The recent offensive by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) capitalized on the regime's weakened state, leading to its rapid downfall.
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