Israeli Troops Cross Into Syria, Assad Flees To Moscow & US Strikes ISIS Targets
Dec 9, 2024
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Roslyn Matheson, EMEA News Director at Bloomberg, and Golna Bonmatovali, journalist covering Iran, provide critical insights on the escalating tensions in Syria. They discuss the historic entry of Israeli troops and the implications for regional stability as Assad flees to Moscow, sparking celebrations in Damascus. The conversation highlights concerns about the resurgence of extremist movements following U.S. airstrikes on ISIS targets. The guests analyze the shifting power dynamics and the potential impact on Iran's involvement in the conflict.
Israeli troops have entered Syria for the first time in over 50 years, highlighting escalating military tensions and security concerns in the region.
The fall of Assad has created a power vacuum, raising fears of extremist resurgence and further destabilization amidst a chaotic political landscape in Syria.
Deep dives
Israeli Military Action in Syria
Israeli ground forces have entered Syria for the first time in over 50 years, marking a significant escalation in military operations amid rising instability in the region. This maneuver was prompted by the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime, which has historically controlled the area and maintained a buffer against Israeli incursions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described this action as a necessary measure to secure Israel's borders, given that the Syrian army has vacated key positions, leaving the area vulnerable. The move reflects Israel's ongoing concerns regarding the presence of hostile groups along its borders and the perceived risks following changes in regional power dynamics.
The Power Vacuum Post-Assad
The fall of Assad has created a substantial power vacuum in Syria, provoking concerns about who will fill the leadership void left behind. Rebel forces, particularly Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have gained ground, but their capacity to establish a stable governing body remains unclear. The chaotic scenes in Damascus following the regime's collapse echo previous conflicts, with looting and public demonstrations both of excitement and uncertainty about what comes next. Analysts stress that without a coherent leadership or governance structure, the potential for further conflict and extremism, particularly from groups like ISIS, looms large.
Implications for Regional Stability
The regional ramifications of Assad's departure are critical, particularly for Iran, which has historically supported the Syrian regime. With Iran losing a key ally, it faces new challenges as its proxy forces across the Middle East, including Hezbollah and Hamas, could be significantly weakened. Experts warn that this destabilization may encourage further aggressive actions from Israel as they adjust military strategies to counter a possibly fragmented Iranian influence in the region. The United States and European nations are also closely monitoring the situation, aware that an unstable Syria could reignite threats from extremist groups and exacerbate existing conflicts.
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(1) Israeli ground forces have crossed into Syria for the first time in more than 50 years. According to the country's military, troops have been operating in the Syrian Hermon region, advancing beyond the demilitarized zone on the border between the two countries.
(2) As Bashar Al-Assad fled to Moscow, the looters started raiding the presidential palace and people took to the streets of Damascus to celebrate his demise.
(3) US airstrikes hit dozens of Islamic State targets in central Syria on Sunday as President Joe Biden cautioned that Bashar al-Assad’s fall from power could open the door to a resurgence of Islamic extremism.
(4) President-elect Donald Trump said he has no plans to replace Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell once he returns to the White House, saying “I don’t see it.”
(5) Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government is set to launch a £100 million fund aimed at helping the state run “more like a start up,” as Labour attempts to rebut criticism over its tumultuous first few months in power.