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The History That Syria's New Leaders Will Need to Overcome

The article from Time magazine discusses the complex history of Syria under the rule of Bashar al-Assad, who succeeded his father, Hafez al-Assad, in 2000. It outlines how Bashar initially promised reforms and a more open society, but these hopes were quickly dashed as he maintained the authoritarian grip of his father's regime. The piece details the 2011 Arab Spring protests which escalated into a civil war, highlighting Assad's brutal response to dissent, including the use of chemical weapons, which led to international condemnation and military interventions. It also covers the geopolitical dynamics, with Assad receiving support from Russia and Iran, while facing opposition from various rebel groups backed by Western and regional powers. The article reflects on the devastating impact of the conflict, including massive casualties, displacement, and the destruction of much of Syria's infrastructure, painting a picture of a nation torn apart by internal strife and external influences, with Assad's regime surviving through a combination of repression, strategic alliances, and the failure of the opposition to unify effectively.

Read the Full Time Article at:
[ https://time.com/7202600/syria-assad-history/ ]