Bashar al-Assad’s 24-Year rule ends: Global leaders react to Syria’s turning point
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government collapsed early Sunday after nearly 14 years of rule amidst a brutal civil war. The swift 12-day offensive led by rebel factions, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, dismantled Assad’s control. Moving south from Aleppo to Damascus, rebels met little resistance as the Syrian army dissolved.
Global leaders reacted swiftly. Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned Assad for mass atrocities and refugee crises, calling his fall “good news for Syrians.” French President Emmanuel Macron celebrated the courage of the Syrian people, emphasizing France’s commitment to regional security.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Assad’s removal “unprecedented,” stressing the need for political solutions to stabilise the region.
President Joe Biden described the regime’s fall as “historic justice,” attributing it to strategic defeats of Assad’s backers, including Russia and Iran. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan pledged Türkiye’s support in rebuilding Syria, while EU leaders highlighted opportunities and risks in the aftermath. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed hope for regional peace while warning of emerging challenges.
The fall of Assad marks a pivotal moment for Syria, reshaping the Middle East’s political dynamics.
