In recent days, the Syrian regime led by Bashar al-Assad has faced unexpected challenges, raising questions about its future stability. The regime, which has been in power since 1971, has weathered numerous internal and external threats over the years, but recent events have cast doubt on its long-term prospects.
The sudden offensive launched by opposition forces, including the rebranded Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, out of Idlib province has caught the regime off guard. Within a span of 72 hours, rebels managed to advance all the way to the center of Aleppo, signaling a significant shift in the conflict.
Key allies of the Assad regime, including Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah, are facing their own challenges, which may have contributed to the recent setbacks. Hezbollah, which played a crucial role in supporting the regime during the civil war, has redirected most of its troops to confront Israel, resulting in a weakened presence in Syria.
Similarly, Russia, which had provided military support to the Syrian government, is now preoccupied with the war in Ukraine, diverting its attention and resources away from Syria. Iran, another key ally, has been facing frequent attacks on its advisers and bases in Syria by Israel, further complicating the situation.
Despite surviving for over five decades, the Assad dynasty has struggled to address endemic corruption and mismanagement, leading to economic hardships for the Syrian population. The civil war that erupted in 2011 has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with hundreds of thousands dead and millions displaced.
While the regime has shown resilience in the face of past challenges, the recent developments highlight the fragility of its grip on power. As the conflict in Syria continues to evolve, the future remains uncertain for Bashar al-Assad and his government.
