Syrian rebels force Assad to flee, reshaping Middle East dynamics

Syrian rebels have quickly forced President Bashar al-Assad to flee the country, changing the Middle East's strategic landscape. This shift comes after years of Assad's rule, which many believed was secure due to support from Iran, Russia, and Hezbollah. The rapid takeover by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has surprised many, as cities fell and symbols of Assad's regime were destroyed. Meanwhile, Iran's influence in the region is weakened, with significant losses among its allies, including Hezbollah. Turkey emerges as a key player following Assad's departure, but it does not control the rebels. The situation remains unpredictable, with various regional powers reassessing their positions in light of the new dynamics in Syria.