US expresses concern over potential power vacuum in Syria after Assad's downfall

The U.S. is concerned about the potential power vacuum in Syria following the unexpected downfall of President Bashar al-Assad. Washington fears that Islamist groups could take advantage of the situation, leading to instability in the region. President Biden acknowledged the U.S. strategy's role in weakening Russia and Iran's influence in Syria. However, the administration is now focused on determining who will govern Syria and how to stabilize the country amid rising chaos. U.S. troops will remain in eastern Syria to counter the Islamic State group. The Biden administration is likely to push for a negotiated settlement involving various factions, despite skepticism about the intentions of groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.