Collapse of Assad Regime Shifts Power in Syria

The unexpected collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria has significantly shifted the power dynamics in the Middle East, with Turkey emerging as a key beneficiary and Iran's influence substantially weakened. The fall of Assad, facilitated by a coalition of rebel groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), marks the end of a regime that had previously maintained a secular stance amidst a predominantly Sunni opposition. As Assad fled to Moscow, regional leaders, including those from Turkey and Israel, expressed their satisfaction with the change, viewing it as a validation of their strategic actions against Iran and Hezbollah. This seismic shift has raised questions about the future governance in Syria and the potential need for external support for HTS to maintain control. Analysts suggest that the developments also complicate the Kurdish issue and could further impact negotiations and alliances in the region. Overall, the new landscape reflects a dramatic reshuffle in Middle Eastern geopolitics, with Turkey and Israel now positioned to exert greater influence.