The Intelligence from The Economist Peace from pieces: Syria after Assad
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Dec 9, 2024 
Christopher Lockwood, Senior editor at The Economist, sheds light on Syria's uncertain future following Assad's downfall, discussing the challenges of rebuilding and the role of international powers. Tom Wainwright, Tech and media editor, analyzes Australia's bold new law banning under-16s from social media, highlighting the mixed public reactions and challenges in enforcement. Meanwhile, Johnny Williams, Culture writer, explores how Dungeons & Dragons has transitioned from niche hobby to mainstream sensation, examining its cultural impact and community-building aspects.
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Syria's Unstable Equilibrium
- Syria was in an unstable equilibrium under Assad, with various forces balanced precariously.
- The fall of the regime creates a new, uncertain equilibrium with potential for both celebration and further conflict.
Rapid Fall of Assad
- The Syrian uprising began on November 27th and quickly led to the fall of major cities like Aleppo and Homs.
- Assad's forces deserted, leading to his flight, likely to Moscow, according to Russian state media.
HTS and the Power Vacuum
- HTS, an Islamist group formerly linked to Al-Qaeda, is currently the most powerful force in Syria.
- Their leader, Abu Muhammad al-Julani, has declared himself president but faces the challenge of unifying a fragmented nation.