Rebels Overthrow Assad, Ushering in Uncertain Era for Syria

The fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime marks a historic shift, but questions about governance, stability, and international response loom large.

Bashar al-Assad's regime collapsed on December 8, 2024, after a rapid offensive led by the rebel coalition Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
HTS, once affiliated with al-Qaeda, now controls most of Syria and has promised reforms, but its designation as a terrorist organization complicates international relations.
The United States, EU, and other global powers face challenges in addressing Syria's future governance while balancing counterterrorism priorities and regional stability.
Turkey has expanded its influence in northern Syria, escalating tensions with Kurdish forces and increasing friction with Israel over territorial and security concerns.
Humanitarian and socio-economic rebuilding efforts are critical, but achieving stability depends on uniting Syria's diverse factions and addressing justice for past atrocities.