Assad's ouster in Syria raises concerns over instability and extremist resurgence

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was ousted by rebel forces over the weekend, ending his 50-year rule. This shift has weakened Iran's influence in the region but raises concerns about potential instability and the rise of extremist groups, particularly Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. The rapid fall of Assad surprised many, including U.S. officials. The U.S. is now looking to engage with various rebel factions, while continuing strikes against Islamic State to prevent its resurgence. Assad's allies, Iran and Russia, face significant challenges following his departure. The opposition has called for a transition period to establish a new government and hold elections. However, the fragmented nature of the rebel forces and the presence of various ethnic and sectarian groups complicate the situation, raising fears of conflict similar to post-Gaddafi Libya or post-Hussein Iraq.