US Warns of Renewed Civil War in Syria

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that Syria is only weeks away from a renewed civil war, as its transitional government, led by former militant Ahmed al-Sharaa, teeters on the edge of collapse. This comes after Islamist-led forces toppled longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in December, followed by recent bloody attacks on minority groups. President Trump has lifted Assad-era sanctions to bolster the transitional government despite concerns over its leaders' backgrounds and internal divisions. Rubio highlighted significant challenges facing the new government, including deep internal distrust and mounting external threats from Iran and Islamic State militants. He argued that US engagement is essential to prevent Syria's fragmentation and further destabilization. Rubio also stressed the importance of a stable Syria for broader regional security, especially for Israel.