Fareed Zakaria GPS
The fall of Assad in Syria and its impact on the Middle East
Dec 8, 2024
After the fall of Assad's regime in Syria, the podcast dives into the shifting power dynamics in the Middle East and the impact on regional stability. The discussions reveal how diminished support from allies like Russia and Iran accelerated Assad's downfall. Insights also cover South Korea's recent martial law and the historical ties to its democratic struggles. Furthermore, the podcast explores Russia's growing influence in Eastern Europe, particularly in Georgia and Romania, amidst rising tensions with the West.
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Quick takeaways
- The collapse of Assad's regime highlights the fragility of authoritarian rule in Syria amid external conflicts and internal challenges.
- South Korea's recent martial law declaration underscores deep political polarization and raises concerns about the future of its democratic norms.
Deep dives
The Fall of Bashar al-Assad's Regime
The Assad regime in Syria collapsed following a swift offensive by opposition forces, marking the end of over five decades of authoritarian rule. The lack of external support from key allies like Russia and Iran, which were preoccupied with their own conflicts, played a crucial role in the regime's downfall. This rapid change led to jubilant celebrations in Damascus, where formerly oppressed citizens cheered the insurgents. However, despite the apparent victory, significant challenges remain as various factions, including ISIS and Kurdish forces, still control parts of the country, hinting at a potential resurgence of conflict.
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