Consider This from NPR What Assad's Fall Means For The World
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Dec 9, 2024 Joshua Landis, a professor and director of the Center for Middle East Studies at the University of Oklahoma, discusses the dramatic end of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria. He shares insights into the emotional aftermath for Syrians yearning for freedom. Delving into the geopolitical repercussions, he highlights how the shift could reshape alliances with Russia and Iran. Landis also examines the impact of U.S. sanctions and the uncertain future of Syria's leadership, considering how a new governance structure might alter Middle Eastern power dynamics.
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Mustafa's Missing Uncle
- Mouaz Mustafa recounts the story of his uncle, taken by the regime after Mustafa took John McCain to Syria.
- He hopes to find his uncle alive in the prisons, highlighting the injustice of the regime's imprisonment of innocent people.
Reasons for Assad's Fall
- Russia's preoccupation with the Ukraine war and losses limited its ability to aid Assad's regime.
- Iran, weakened by Israeli attacks on Hezbollah, also reduced its support, leaving the Syrian army vulnerable.
Hollowed-Out Syrian Army
- The Syrian army was severely weakened due to low pay and lack of resources.
- Officers sent soldiers home to support families, and the army resorted to extorting civilians at roadblocks.