The US President Joe Biden has called the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in Syria “a fundamental act of justice” after years of repression. However, he warned that this victory by rebel groups brings uncertainty and risks for the Middle East. Assad, who ruled Syria for decades, reportedly fled to Moscow, where Russia, his long-time ally, gave him asylum.
Biden said U.S. actions, along with those of its allies, weakened Assad’s supporters like Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah, making it impossible for them to protect him. He claimed this as a success in shifting power in the region. Critics, however, might question why Biden hasn’t taken a similar moral stance on other crises, such as the ongoing Israel’s genocidal attacks on Gaza, pointing out what seems to be selective concern for human rights.
The United States has no plans to get directly involved in Syria’s new conflict but will keep its 900 troops there. These forces are focused on preventing ISIS from regaining strength in the region. Biden also emphasised that U.S. military strikes recently targeted ISIS camps to stop them from exploiting the current chaos.
The rebel forces that overthrew Assad include Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group once linked to al-Qaida but now claiming independence. This raises questions about what kind of leadership might emerge in Syria. HTS freed political prisoners from Assad’s prisons.
Biden also spoke about missing U.S. journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared in Syria in 2012. His family continues to plead for his return, and Biden reiterated that the U.S. believes Tice is alive but has no solid evidence. He promised to hold Assad accountable for crimes committed during his regime and to continue efforts to locate Tice.
