Shifting Alliances Affect Bashar al-Assad's Power

In recent weeks, significant changes in the geopolitical landscape have had direct implications for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's hold on power. Traditionally, both Iran and Russia have been staunch supporters of Assad's regime during the Syrian civil war, contributing extensive military resources and strategic aid. However, over the last fifteen days, the dynamics have shifted. The Russian and Iranian governments, preoccupied with their respective military commitments, particularly the ongoing war in Ukraine and conflicts involving Israel, appear to have diminished their support for Assad. This decline in assistance has emboldened rebel forces, allowing them to advance towards Damascus with unprecedented ease. As Assad's regime struggles, Russia's military focus has been redirected toward Ukraine, which requires all available resources in the pursuit of victory. Likewise, Iran faces challenges due to its involvement in regional conflicts, particularly with Hamas and Israel, rendering it less capable of supporting Assad. Therefore, it can be observed that Assad's precarious situation is largely attributable to the diversion of resources by his former allies towards other pressing engagements, leading to his regime's vulnerabilities amidst ongoing hostilities.