Syria's Power Vacuum: A Looming Threat to Stability
The recent upheaval in Syria has taken the world by surprise, marking a grim turn in the nation’s history. Rebel factions, led by Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS), rapidly took over Damascus, compelling President Bashar Al Assad to flee and paving the way for a new "Salvation Government." This power shift, reminiscent of the Taliban’s rise in Afghanistan, raises alarming questions about Syria’s future and global stability.
Syria’s Decline: A Stark Parallel to Afghanistan
Syria, once a beacon of progress in the Arab world, has witnessed a catastrophic fall. Known for its literacy, women’s rights, and secular governance under the Al Assad dynasty, Syria’s descent mirrors Afghanistan’s tragic takeover by militants. However, Syria’s unique socio-political fabric makes this development all the more distressing.
The HTS-led offensive, launched from Idlib in late November, capitalized on a weakened Assad regime. Despite significant territorial recovery by Assad’s forces in previous years, sanctions, internal strife, and depleted morale left Syria vulnerable. Iran, a key ally, reportedly warned of an impending offensive, but its advice went unheeded, leaving Assad isolated.
Regional Powers and the Emerging Chaos
The power vacuum in Syria has drawn both opportunistic and cautious responses from regional players.
Turkey: Long a supporter of Syrian rebels, Turkey may leverage the situation to secure its interests, potentially expanding its buffer zones along the border.
Israel: Concerned about advanced weapons falling into hostile hands, Israel has intensified strikes on Syrian depots and assets, asserting its dominance.
Iran and Russia: Once staunch backers of Assad, they are retreating, with diminished capacity to intervene due to broader geopolitical strains.
Risks of Another Terrorist Hub
The situation risks Syria becoming a haven for terrorism, reminiscent of ISIS’s rise. The HTS, although attempting to project a moderate image, has a history rooted in Al Qaeda. Its leadership and motives raise concerns about extremist ideologies taking hold again. Additionally, instability could fuel Kurdish separatist ambitions, further fracturing the region.
The International Community’s Role
For Syria to avoid becoming another Afghanistan, the international community must act decisively. Addressing humanitarian crises, supporting inclusive governance, and preventing terrorist regrouping is critical. However, geopolitical rivalries and competing interests complicate collective action.
Hope Amid Despair
Despite the chaos, Syria’s resilient people remain its greatest hope. Their determination and sacrifices offer a glimmer of optimism in ensuring the nation does not fall into perpetual instability.
Refrence From: www.ndtv.com