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The global players in Syria before and after Assad

The article from MSN discusses the complex geopolitical landscape of Syria, detailing the involvement of various global and regional powers both before and after the rise of Bashar al-Assad. Initially, Syria under Hafez al-Assad, Bashar's father, was a key player in Middle Eastern politics, aligning with the Soviet Union during the Cold War and maintaining a strategic balance against Israel. Post-Cold War, Syria's role shifted with Bashar al-Assad's leadership, which began in 2000. The article outlines how the Syrian Civil War, which started in 2011, transformed the country into a battleground for international influence. Key players include:

Russia: A long-standing ally, Russia has provided military support to Assad, including air strikes and diplomatic backing at the UN, aiming to maintain its naval base in Tartus and counter Western influence.

Iran: Supporting Assad to preserve its influence in the region, Iran has provided military advisors, funds, and militias like Hezbollah, seeing Syria as a crucial link in its "axis of resistance" against Israel and the U.S.

United States: Initially involved in supporting opposition groups to counterbalance Assad's regime, U.S. policy has oscillated between direct military action, support for rebels, and later, focusing on defeating ISIS, while also imposing sanctions on Assad's government.

Turkey: Initially backing the Syrian opposition, Turkey's involvement has been driven by concerns over Kurdish autonomy in northern Syria, leading to military incursions to prevent the establishment of a Kurdish state.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar: Both have supported various opposition groups, often with differing agendas, aiming to reduce Iranian influence and promote Sunni governance.

Israel: While not directly involved in the civil war, Israel has conducted airstrikes targeting Iranian and Hezbollah positions in Syria to prevent the transfer of advanced weapons.

European Union: Has imposed sanctions on Assad's regime and provided humanitarian aid, while also dealing with the refugee crisis resulting from the conflict.

The article concludes by noting that the Syrian conflict has not only reshaped the country's internal dynamics but has also significantly altered the geopolitical strategies of these global players, with ongoing implications for regional stability and international relations.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/politics/government/the-global-players-in-syria-before-and-after-assad/ar-AA1vCucJ ]

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