Urooj NazirSyria’s Damascus With President Bashar al-Assad’s ouster from office, the Syrian Civil War has officially ended after more than 13 years of deadly fighting. Months of intensifying demonstrations, defections from his inner circle, and a decisive military campaign by opposition forces backed by an international coalition culminated in this momentous day.
A Historic Turning Point
Rebel fighters took control of Damascus’ presidential palace late Thursday, securing the city with little to no casualties. According to reports, Assad and important members of his government reportedly left the country while it was still dark. While confirming the temporary shelter granted to certain regime leaders, neighboring Turkey has refrained from commenting on Assad’s whereabouts.
According to Ahmed Al-Zaher, a spokesman for the main opposition party, the Syrian National Coalition, “this is the beginning of a new chapter for Syria.” “After so much sacrifice and suffering, our people can now finally look forward to peace and a better future.”
Years of Turmoil
After a violent suppression of nonviolent demonstrations during the Arab Spring, the Syrian Civil War broke out in 2011. Over 500,000 people were killed and millions were displaced as the conflict descended into a multifaceted war involving government forces, opposition organizations, extremist organizations, and international powers. The administration of Assad was charged with war crimes, including attacking civilians with chemical weapons.
Global powers have also become involved in the conflict. The United States and a number of Gulf nations supported different rebel factions, while Russia and Iran gave Assad’s administration vital backing. Millions of people fled to neighboring countries and Europe as a result of the conflict, which caused a humanitarian crisis.
Path to Peace
The foundation for Assad’s exit was established in recent months by a series of high-level talks aided by the UN. The pivotal moment occurred when Russia and other important allies withdrew their backing in the face of growing economic pressure and international censure.
To supervise the nation’s rehabilitation and ultimate democratic elections, a transitional administration will be put in place. In order to help reconstruct Syria’s war-torn cities and deal with the refugee crisis, the UN has committed $5 billion in emergency humanitarian aid.
Challenges Ahead
While joy broke out in Syria’s freed regions, the road to recovery is still paved with obstacles. Significant obstacles include economic destruction, sectarian divisions, and the persistence of extremist organizations.
“This is a crucial time for Syria,” said UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen, calling for unity. To help the Syrian people in their pursuit of democracy, justice, and stability, the international world must unite.
The Global Reactions
Leaders around the world applauded the conflict’s conclusion. While Russian President Vladimir Putin voiced optimism for Syria’s stability despite the loss of a crucial partner, US President Kamala Harris called it “a victory for human rights and democracy.”
People in Damascus expressed cautious optimism in the streets. “We have endured a great deal of hardship,” schoolteacher Layla Ahmed remarked. “We can now hope for peace and life reconstruction.”
