Syrian Civil War: 14 Years On, Bashar al-Assad Ousted, Fighting Continues

The Start of the Syrian Civil War

• 💡 The Syrian Civil War began 14 years ago when Syrian children in Daraa emulated the Arab Spring, writing "the people want the end of the regime" on walls.
• ⚠️ When these children were returned home beaten and some deceased, Syrians rose up against Assad's government, leading to widespread conflict.

Escalation and International Involvement

• 💥 The conflict saw the complete destruction of Aleppo and significant bombardment, with Iran and Russia playing major roles.
• 💔 Tens of thousands were tortured, and hundreds of thousands disappeared, marking a period of horrific events.
• 🌍 International players like Russia, Iran, and the United States became involved, prolonging the war.

Bashar al-Assad's Ouster and New Government

• 📉 In a surprising turn of events in December, Bashar al-Assad was ousted.
• 👔 The new leader, from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, signaled openness by changing from military fatigues to a suit and tie, a symbol of Western influence.
• ⚠️ Despite this shift, sectarian violence has re-emerged in Latakia, a former pro-Assad city, with approximately a thousand people killed in the last week.

Shifting Geopolitical Landscape

• 🇷🇺 Russia maintains its two military bases on the coast, a key strategic interest for them.
• 🇮🇷 Iran's influence has waned, with their focus shifting back to domestic issues, and Hezbollah is on the back foot.
• 🇺🇸 The US, which backed the SDF fighting ISIS in the north, is seeing the SDF integrated into the new government.
• 🇹🇷 Turkey also seeks a foothold in the region.

Hope for Peace

• 🙏 The people of Syria are yearning for peace, and this anniversary marks a hope for the first peaceful celebration since Assad's fall.