The Global Story
The final hours of the Assad regime
Dec 9, 2024
Lina Sinjab, a BBC Middle East correspondent and a Syrian national, recounts her first-hand experiences in a freshly liberated Damascus after President Bashar al-Assad's flight. She paints a vivid picture of celebrations mixed with chaos as rebels close in on the capital. Meanwhile, Lyse Doucet, BBC's Chief International Correspondent, analyzes the implications of this regime change for Syria's future. Together, they discuss the emotional turmoil of civilians, the hope for democracy, and the complex geopolitical dynamics shaping the region.
28:18
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Quick takeaways
- The abrupt fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime has sparked celebrations among Syrians, symbolizing a significant shift towards potential freedom and hope.
- While the removal of Assad ignites optimism for democracy in Syria, the power vacuum raises concerns about the rise of Islamist groups and ongoing instability.
Deep dives
End of Assad's Rule
The recent events in Syria mark a sudden and historic end to Bashar al-Assad's decades-long control over the country. After years of civil war and a significant loss of life, a coalition of rebel groups, particularly Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, managed to seize control of key cities, leading to Assad's swift retreat from power. This unprecedented situation unfolded rapidly as foreign support for Assad dwindled, primarily due to distractions faced by his allies, Iran and Russia, elsewhere in the region. The fall of Assad's regime has left many Syrians, who had lost hope over the years, celebrating a newfound sense of freedom and possibility for their country.
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