3 Things Bashar al-Assad flees Syria, Cyclone Fengal, and a mosque in UP
Dec 11, 2024
Shubhajit Roy, Diplomatic Affairs Editor at The Indian Express, discusses the turmoil in Syria, analyzing Bashar al-Assad's diminishing power and the role of Islamist rebel groups. He delves into the historical context of the conflict and potential geopolitical shifts. Anjali Marar, also from The Indian Express, shares insights on Cyclone Fengal, emphasizing its surprising devastation despite being low-intensity. The conversation also touches on the controversial demolition of a historic mosque in Uttar Pradesh, linking local issues to broader national dynamics.
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Syrian Conflict Escalation
- The Syrian conflict escalated rapidly, with rebels taking Damascus in under 15 days.
- President Assad fled to Russia after 13 years of civil war.
Origins of Syrian Conflict
- The Syrian conflict began in 2011, part of the Arab Spring uprisings.
- Protests against Assad's regime were met with violent crackdowns.
Bashar al-Assad's Leadership
- Bashar al-Assad, trained ophthalmologist, succeeded his father as president in 2000.
- Initially seen as modern and secular, Assad ruled with an iron fist, suppressing dissent.