In a surprising turn of events in the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape, Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria has fallen after 14 years of civil conflict. CNN International correspondent Clarissa Ward reported directly from Damascus on the climate of euphoria that took over the Syrian capital after the rebels declared that they had taken control of the city.
According to Ward, the streets of Damascus were filled with celebrations, with people hugging each other over cars, setting off fireworks and distributing sweets.
“There was an electric atmosphere of joy, people were filled with joy. They saw it as a victory of the people, a victory for the people”, described the journalist.
Concerns about the future
Despite the widespread euphoria, Ward warned of concerns among some minority groups, especially the Alawites, the ethnic group to which the Assad family belongs. There are fears of possible reprisals, although rebel leaders have been quick to promise a pluralistic and inclusive government.
“It takes immense logistics, discipline and generosity in the coming weeks and months,” Ward said, highlighting the challenges the country will face in maintaining stability after years of bloody conflict.
Regional and international impact
Assad’s fall represents a seismic shift in regional geopolitics. Ward described the event as a “tectonic plate movement” that directly affects the balance of power in the Middle East, significantly weakening the influence of Iran and Hezbollah in the region.
Meanwhile, Assad’s traditional ally Russia appears to have chosen not to intervene decisively, possibly due to its involvement in the war in Ukraine.
Russian news agency TASS reported that Assad and his family landed in Moscow, where they were granted asylum for “humanitarian reasons.”
The international community eagerly awaits the next developments, with United States President Joe Biden preparing to make a statement on the situation in Syria. The presence of hundreds of American military personnel in the country adds an extra layer of complexity to the already delicate situation.
This content was originally published in CNN correspondent in Syria details Assad’s fall on the CNN Brasil website.
Source: CNN Brasil
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