Assad's regime falls: what happens next for Syria?

In a significant turn of events in Syria, after enduring 13 years of devastating civil war, rebel forces have successfully stormed the capital city of Damascus. This development marks the end of Bashar al-Assad's long-standing regime, which has ruled the country for over five decades. Reports indicate that Syrian government troops abandoned their posts during the conflict, with some soldiers reportedly shedding their uniforms to flee as the rebels advanced. The conflict had been characterized by immense suffering, loss, and destruction across Syria, with almost every community impacted by years of violence and civil strife. With the city of Damascus now in the hands of rebel fighters, speculation arises regarding the future governance of Syria and potential power vacuums left by Assad's ousting. The international community, particularly nations like Russia and the United States, will also be closely monitoring this shift, given their previous involvement in supporting different factions within the country. While news outlets report that Assad has reportedly resigned and fled, the absence of confirmed information about his current whereabouts raises questions about the stability of the new rebel governance. Various groups that have fought against Assad have different ideologies and visions for Syria’s future, leading to uncertainty about the next steps following the regime's collapse. Some factions may seek to establish a democratic framework, while others may pursue more radical agendas. As celebratory scenes unfolded in parts of Damascus, the lasting impacts of civil war left many grieving their lost homes, lives, and communities. This stark contrast highlights the deep divisions within Syrian society as it begins to reckon with what comes next after such prolonged conflict. One notable international reaction comes from Israel, which has entered a demilitarized buffer zone in territory it controls next to Syria, indicating ongoing regional concerns and the shifting geopolitical landscape as a result of the conflict's evolution.