After nearly 14 years of devastating war, the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has come to an end, with rebel forces taking control of the capital Damascus. The 24-year rule of Assad, marked by conflict, repression, and international controversy, leaves behind a fractured nation, hundreds of thousands dead, and millions displaced.
The collapse of Bashar al-Assad's rule is being seen as a historic moment. Nearly 14 years ago, when Syrians had taken to the streets in peaceful protests against the Assad regime, it responded with violent repression, triggering a devastating civil war. The brutal crackdown on the pro-democracy movement escalated into a conflict that claimed over half a million lives and displaced 12 million people from their homes.
Russia, an ally, said Sunday Bashar ...