The Decline of Assad: A 14-Year Journey from Protest to Fall

From 2011, protests against Bashar al-Assad escalated into an armed conflict, resulting in a prolonged civil war marked by international involvement, atrocities, and a humanitarian crisis. Key moments include the rise of extremist groups, significant military interventions by foreign powers, and pivotal battles across major cities. Assad’s regime ultimately fell in 2024 following comprehensive assaults by opposition forces, highlighting ongoing instability in the region.

The downfall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria represents the apex of a 14-year civil war characterized by extreme violence, significant loss of life, and political fragmentation. As protests erupted in 2011, they swiftly escalated into an armed uprising met with brutal repression by security forces, prompting some military units to defect and join the opposition. Support from external actors, including Western nations and neighboring Arab states, bolstered the rebels’ efforts against the Assad government.

Since 2011, the Syrian civil war has led to the deaths of hundreds of thousands and displaced around half of the population. Initially sparked by public protests, the conflict transformed into a multi-faceted war involving numerous factions and international interests. This timeline details the progression of the conflict and key events influencing the rise and fall of Assad’s authority in Syria.

The Syrian civil war, beginning in 2011 and culminating in Assad’s ousting in 2024, illustrates the complexities and tragedies of conflict fueled by political repression, sectarian divides, and external interventions. The eventual collapse of Assad’s power signifies a pivotal shift in the region, as struggling rebel forces, emboldened by new opportunities, began to reclaim major urban centers and ultimately, the seat of government in Damascus.

Original Source: projects.voanews.com