Amid the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, the nation remains embroiled in conflict as various international actors vie for strategic advantage in the resulting power vacuum.
As Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) takes de facto control in Syria, the country continues to experience external aggression and internal strife among groups with conflicting agendas. Turkey, for example, is focusing on clearing out fighters allied with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) in northern Syria. Despite the fall of Assad, these Kurdish groups continue to hold much of the land in northeast Syria and have been vital in the fight against ISIS. The Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) has clashed with Kurdish forces, with tensions pointing to a possible Turkish incursion near Kobani.
Meanwhile, Israel has initiated a series of military strikes aimed at remnants of the Syrian Arab Army. The Israeli military claims its actions, involving almost 500 strikes, are a preventive measure to stop military assets from falling into extremist hands. Israeli forces have also moved to control strategic areas, notably Mount Hermon, citing the potential threat from radical groups if they gain control of Damascus.
The United States, maintaining around 900 troops in northeast Syria, partners with Kurdish groups to combat ISIS, a mission it vows to continue post-Assad. US forces have faced increased attacks from Iran-backed groups opposing American presence in Syria. CENTCOM is actively engaging ISIS operatives to prevent their resurgence in the current instability. US forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces face hostilities from Turkish-backed factions, especially around critical ISIS detention sites.
In sum, Syria’s complex situation involves significant international interests and interventions, each influenced by strategic, political, and military considerations. While Assad’s regime is no longer in power, the multifaceted conflict in Syria presents ongoing challenges and risks for regional stability.
Despite the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Syria remains a focal point for foreign powers seeking to safeguard their interests amid a precarious power shift.
Source: CNN
