Syria: A Broken Nation or a New Threat to the World?

Syria, a country with one of the world’s most ancient histories, has become a symbol of contemporary tragedy. Its capital, Damascus, is considered the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. However, this once-thriving region is now synonymous with destruction, chaos, and war. The Syrian conflict, which has lasted for over a decade, has turned the country into a battleground for global powers, local factions, and radical movements.

What is really happening in Syria? Why has a nation that for centuries served as a hub of culture and trade become the epicenter of global confrontation? This article examines the key players in the conflict, the reasons behind the prolonged war, and its consequences for both the region and the world. Syria is not just a story of a struggle for power—it is a cautionary tale for anyone seeking to understand how ethnic, religious, and political divisions can destroy a nation.

The Oldest Capital in the World — Damascus

Damascus is not just the capital of Syria but also one of the oldest cities in the world. Historical records date its existence back to 2500 BCE, making it the world’s oldest continuously inhabited capital. For comparison, Rome was founded 1500 years later.

Historically, Damascus was a vital center of trade, culture, and religion. Situated at the crossroads of trade routes connecting the East and West, it was a symbol of civilization and prosperity for centuries. Today, however, Damascus is a symbol of destruction, chaos, and endless war.

Syria as a nation has a history spanning thousands of years, yet it has struggled to forge a unified national identity. This is because its borders were drawn politically rather than ethnically or culturally. Syria has always been a region populated by a mosaic of tribes, cultures, and religions that often clashed with one another.

What Is Happening in Syria?

Today, Syria is one of the world’s most volatile hotspots. The global community remains fixated on a war that has ravaged the country for over a decade. At first glance, Syria and Ukraine might seem unrelated, but there are striking parallels between them.

The Syrian government, led by Bashar al-Assad, has managed to cling to power primarily through the support of external allies. However, despite military successes, Assad has completely lost the peace. His reliance on foreign powers such as Russia and Iran has left his regime vulnerable and incapable of establishing long-term stability.

To draw a comparison: imagine if Ukraine somehow won its war, joined NATO, and Russia collapsed. One might assume this would bring peace, but instead, it would spark a new battle over resources and influence. A similar scenario is unfolding in Syria, where the victory of one side merely opens the door to fresh conflicts.

Syria’s fundamental problem lies in its ethnic and cultural fragmentation. This is a region with a millennia-old history where a unified nation-state has never truly existed. The diversity of tribes, languages, religions, and cultures has made the creation of a cohesive state impossible. Syrians feel a deep attachment to their ancient land, but they lack a shared identity tied to the modern state.

Key Players in the Conflict

The Syrian war is not just a civil conflict—it is a clash of interests involving local factions, neighboring states, and global superpowers. Let’s examine the main players in the conflict.

1. Bashar al-Assad’s Government

Bashar al-Assad came to power in 2000 after the death of his father, Hafez al-Assad. His presidency began with attempts at liberalization and reform but eventually became synonymous with authoritarianism and corruption.

Although Assad has managed to maintain control for many years, his position has been significantly weakened by internal discontent and external pressure. The U.S. and Europe have accused him of human rights violations, and even among his Russian allies, there have been complaints about the inefficiency and corruption of the Syrian government.

Overthrowing Assad has been one of the primary objectives of the armed opposition, which is supported by the West and several Arab nations.

2. Turkish Factions

Turkey plays a central role in the Syrian conflict. It supports numerous armed factions, including opposition forces and jihadists. These groups, despite their differing agendas, share a common goal: the removal of Bashar al-Assad.

In 2014, then-U.S. Vice President Joe Biden publicly criticized Turkey’s role in supporting radicals. Nearly a decade later, these factions have become an essential tool of Turkish influence in Syria.

3. Iranian Groups

Iran has suffered one of its most significant strategic setbacks in Syria. Before the war, Syria was a crucial ally of Iran and a key component of the so-called “Shia Crescent,” which stretches from Iran to Lebanon.

The fall of Damascus and Assad’s potential overthrow would cost Iran not only a strategic ally but also vital supply routes for arming Hezbollah. This has weakened Iran’s influence in the region and forced it to evacuate many of its diplomats and military personnel from Syria.

4. The Kurds

The Kurds are one of the largest ethnic groups in Syria and are seeking greater autonomy. They receive substantial support from the United States, which allows them to maintain significant influence in the region.

Supporting the Kurds serves U.S. interests by counterbalancing other forces like Iran and Russia. However, the Kurdish push for autonomy has drawn strong opposition from Turkey, which fears the empowerment of Kurdish movements on its territory.

5. Russia

Russia has played a pivotal role in supporting Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Its military intervention in 2015 helped the Syrian government retain power and reclaim significant territories.

However, many argue that Russia has lost in Syria. Its resources have been depleted, and its influence in the region is gradually diminishing. Nevertheless, as long as Russia maintains its two military bases in Syria, it would be premature to declare a complete defeat.

The Role of Israel and the United States

Israel

Israel has conducted over 300 airstrikes on military bases and airfields in Syria. Its primary goal is to weaken Iran’s influence and prevent the establishment of bases that could threaten its security.

Israel has also initiated limited ground operations in Syria, drawing condemnation from the UN and Islamic countries. However, Israel insists these are temporary measures aimed at ensuring its own security.

The United States

The U.S. supports the Kurds and conducts strategic operations in Syria. It seeks to maintain its influence in the region while weakening Iran and Russia.

John Bolton, a former U.S. ambassador to the UN, once described Syria as a “rogue state” that America must either isolate or destroy. This position remains relevant today.

The Story of Bashar al-Assad

Bashar al-Assad became Syria’s president in 2000 following his father’s death. Before this, he studied medicine in the UK and worked as an ophthalmologist in London.

Initially, Assad attempted to introduce reforms aimed at liberalizing the country:

• He released political prisoners.
• He allowed opposition media outlets to operate.
• He opened private banks and schools.

However, after the events of September 11, 2001, Assad offered cooperation to the U.S., only to be branded a “dictator” and placed on the West’s list of enemies.

This raises the question: was Assad truly a dictator, or simply too weak a leader to maintain order in his country?

Who Is Abu Muhammad al-Julani?

Abu Muhammad al-Julani is one of the most dangerous terrorists of the modern era. He began his career in 2004 with al-Qaeda and later took part in the Iraq War.

In 2013, the U.S. offered a $10 million reward for information leading to his capture. In recent years, however, Western media have attempted to “soften” his image, portraying him as a radical with a “human face.”

Today, al-Julani controls significant territory in Syria and enjoys Turkish support. Many fear that his success could mark the beginning of a global spread of radical Islam.

Syria as a Global Threat

Syria occupies a strategically crucial geographic position at the center of global trade routes. If radical groups manage to establish control, this would pose a significant threat to the world.

Syria could become the first fully-fledged jihadist state, where society is built on radical Islam. Such a development would pose a serious danger, spreading extremist ideology far beyond the region.

Conclusion

The Syrian conflict is a complex and multifaceted issue with far-reaching global implications.

While Ukraine celebrates Russian losses in Syria, it teeters on the brink of its own destruction. Meanwhile, as radical groups consolidate power in Syria, the world must remember that their victory could herald the beginning of a far greater global threat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Situation in Syria