Syria has endured over 50 years of oppressive rule under the Assad family, dominated by the Alawite minority. Similarly, Iraq was governed despotically by the Sunni majority under Saddam Hussein, who controlled the oil revenue largely in Kurdish territories. The Shiite majority in Iraq, influenced by Iran, faced similar challenges.
Throughout history, Syria has been ruled by various empires and influences, with tribal and ethnic differences being of minor significance. Post-World War I, European powers divided territories in Africa and the Middle East without considering ethnic boundaries, leading to ongoing conflicts in many nations.
The arbitrary borders drawn by European powers continue to fuel conflicts in Africa and the Middle East. The Balfour Declaration and other agreements disregarded ethnic and tribal differences, leading to enduring tensions.
The current Middle Eastern states like Iran, Turkey, Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia have established themselves, with recent actions weakening Iran’s influence in the region. Efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons have gained international support.
The fall of the Assad regime in Syria is met with relief by the population, signaling a potential shift in governance. The possibility of a decentralized government or confederation in Syria is being considered, aiming for stability and peace in the region.
Israel’s permanence in the region is acknowledged, with recent developments indicating progress in resolving conflicts with neighboring states. Collaboration among regional powers may be necessary to prevent Syria from becoming a hotspot for terrorism or humanitarian crises.
The departure of Assad is viewed as a positive step forward, although challenges remain in establishing a stable government in Syria.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
