December 7, 2024
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Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali, as reports continue that “rebels” have entered Damascus, Syria’s capital city, and that the current government, under President Bashar al-Assad, has fallen.
Why It Matters: The future of Syria hangs in the balance. The Assad regime currently rules Syria. However, over the last week, a contingent called Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (or “HTS”) has mounted a counter offensive, gaining territory suddenly in a country that has experienced civil war for more than a decade. Reports suggest “rebels” have taken Damascus, and President Assad’s whereabouts are unknown.
More: “The dramatic collapse marks a seismic moment for the Middle East, ending the family’s iron-fisted rule over Syria and dealing a massive blow to Russia and Iran, which have lost a key ally at the heart of the region.” (Reuters)
Who Leads HTS? Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani. The group once had ties to both ISIS and Al Qaeda but has spent recent years battling both, and calling for tolerance of Christian and other minority groups. One quote from al-Jawlani: “In the future Syria, we believe that diversity is our strength, not a weakness.”
Did You Know? The Assad family has ruled Syria for 50 years. President Assad’s father rose to power during a coup in the 1970s.
Read More: The Wall Street Journal: Updates
by Jenna Lee, Founder of SmartHER News
