Fall of the Assad regime

On December 8, 2024, a Dramatic Collapse of Ba’athist Syria

Imagine a domino effect, where one piece falling triggers an entire chain reaction. That’s exactly what happened in Syria on that fateful day. On December 8, 2024, the regime led by President Bashar al-Assad crumbled under the weight of relentless opposition forces. The capture of Damascus marked not just a military victory but the end of an era—a hereditary totalitarian rule spanning over four decades.

The Fall of Damascus

As Bashar al-Assad fled aboard a plane to Russia, opposition forces declared victory on state television and the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed Assad’s resignation. This moment was more than just a political shift; it was a seismic change in the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.

Opposition Forces Celebrate

The streets of Homs erupted with joy as residents chanted anti-Assad slogans and removed government symbols, symbolizing the end of an oppressive regime. Rebel commander Hassan Abdel Ghani announced that his forces had begun implementing the final phase of encircling Damascus, signaling a new chapter in Syria’s history.

Pro-Government Forces Withdraw

As pro-government forces left their positions and senior Assad officials engaged in negotiations with opposition forces regarding potential defections, it became clear that the regime was no longer in control. The presidential guard was no longer deployed at Assad’s residence, leaving his whereabouts unknown to rebel forces.

The Aftermath

Asma al-Assad and her children moved to Russia with the couple’s extended family taking refuge in the United Arab Emirates. This move underscored the extent of the regime’s collapse and the uncertainty that now loomed over Syria.

Russian Involvement

Mikhail Ulyanov announced that Assad’s family had been granted asylum in Russia, while the Russian government stated that Assad resigned due to a personal decision. This move by Russia was seen as both a humanitarian gesture and a strategic withdrawal from direct involvement in Syria’s internal affairs.

Opposition Forces Seize Control

The opposition forces successfully seized critical facilities in Damascus, including the state-media General Organization of Radio and TV building and Damascus International Airport. These symbolic victories marked significant progress towards establishing control over key infrastructure.

Regional Reactions

Egyptian and Jordanian officials urged Bashar al-Assad to leave the country and form a government-in-exile, while Israel initiated military operations in Syria’s Quneitra Governorate for the first time in 50 years. This move by Israel targeted areas including Tel Ayouba, signaling a new level of engagement with the conflict.

International Response

The fall of Assad disrupted Iran’s supply routes to Hezbollah and weakened the group’s arsenal. Western media described it as damaging to Russian foreign policy, potentially affecting Putin’s Ukraine strategy and influence in Africa and Latin America. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham declared Syria ‘liberated,’ while Turkey and Turkish-backed fighters captured Manbij from US-backed SDF forces.

Analysts’ Speculations

Analysts speculated about a potential revival of an Alawite state with Russian backing, but Russia rejected the plan, viewing it as dividing Syria. This rejection highlighted the complex dynamics at play in Syria’s future and the strategic interests of major powers.

Political Transition

Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali announced plans to cooperate with Syrians and establish normal relations with nations, signaling a shift towards a new political landscape. However, the opposition faced challenges in deciding on a new governing system, leaving many questions unanswered.

Conclusion

The fall of Assad’s regime marked not just an end but also a beginning—a new chapter for Syria and its people. As the dust settles, it is clear that the path forward will be fraught with challenges and uncertainties. The international community must work together to ensure that this transition leads to peace, stability, and justice for all Syrians.