US conducts airstrikes in Syria amid concerns over rise of extremism after Assad's fall

The U.S. recently conducted extensive airstrikes in Syria, targeting 785 sites amid concerns over the rise of Islamist extremism following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. The airstrikes involved B-52 bombers and F-15 fighters, indicating a significant military response. The coalition that led the rebellion against Assad, primarily Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has ties to violent Islamist groups. Despite claims of moderation, the group’s leadership has a history with al-Qaeda and ISIS, raising fears of a resurgence of extremism in a post-Assad Syria. As the new leadership seeks to establish a stable government, the potential for attracting extremists remains high. The U.S. bombings reflect ongoing worries about the security situation in Syria and the possibility of renewed violence in the region.