THREAD: bashar al assad ousted syrias new dawn

SYRIA’S NEW Rulers: Is a Taliban-Like Takeover Imminent?

21 December 2024 — Bashar al-Assad was ousted from Damascus two weeks ago, ending his family’s five-decade rule. The insurgent coalition that toppled him was led by Hayat Tahir al-Sham (HTS), an offshoot of al-Qaeda. HTS leader Muhammad al-Jolani, with a $10 million FBI bounty, is attempting to rebrand as Ahmed al-Sharaa to distance from his terrorist past.

Western governments hope HTS will lead a more inclusive Syria and avoid an Afghanistan-like scenario post-U.S. withdrawal in 2021. However, HTS leaders’ admiration for the Taliban raises concerns about their intentions. The Taliban congratulated HTS on Assad’s overthrow, further complicating the West’s cautious optimism.

Despite designating HTS as a terrorist organization, European governments and the UN have reached out to them to prevent another Afghanistan situation. U.S. diplomats have also engaged with Syria’s new rulers for the first time since 2011, aiming to support Syrian civil society and envision a peaceful future for the country.

Outgoing Secretary of State Antony Blinken explicitly warned HTS against following the Taliban’s path on Thursday. The Biden administration is wary of repeating past mistakes and seeks assurances that Syria won’t become another stronghold for extremist rule under its new leadership.

TURKISH ATTACKS on US Allies in Syria: A Looming Danger

13 December 2024 — Gen. Mazloum Abdi of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) told Fox News about ongoing Turkish attacks despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. The SDF, a key U.S. ally, guards 45,000 ISIS militants and their families in Eastern Syria. Gen. Mazloum said these attacks have severely hindered their counterterror operations.

Since Bashar Al Assad’s fall on December 8, Turkish aggression against the SDF has intensified. Gen. Mazloum warned that if Kurdish forces withdraw, ISIS could resurge in the region. Half of the fighters guarding ISIS camps have been pulled back to protect their families amid escalating violence from Turkey’s forces and allied groups like the Syrian National Army (SNA).

The situation is critical as prison guards at facilities like Raqqa are halved, leaving them vulnerable to potential ISIS breakouts. The U.S., with 900 troops stationed in Eastern Syria, faces a strategic dilemma if Kurdish allies retreat under Turkish pressure.

National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby emphasized maintaining focus on counter-ISIS missions while engaging with both SDF partners and Turkish counterparts to resolve tensions peacefully.

TURKISH ATTACKS Ignite Fears: US Allies In Danger

13 December 2024 — In an exclusive interview with Fox News, Gen. Mazloum Abdi of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) revealed ongoing Turkish military attacks on his Kurdish forces. Despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, Turkey continues its aggression, launching up to 80 drone attacks daily and heavy artillery shelling. This has severely hindered the SDF’s counterterrorism operations against ISIS in Eastern Syria.

The situation has worsened since Bashar Al Assad’s fall on December 8, with Gen. Mazloum warning of an ISIS resurgence if Kurdish fighters are forced to flee. He noted that half of the guards at ISIS camps have withdrawn to protect their families, leaving prisons like Raqqa’s in a precarious state with diminished security personnel.

Gen. Mazloum emphasized that all prisons remain under SDF control but are critically understaffed due to Turkish aggression. The U.S., which has 900 troops in Eastern Syria, may need to withdraw if the Kurdish forces retreat under pressure from Turkey’s military actions against what it perceives as terrorist threats from the Kurds.

National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby stated that maintaining focus on counter-ISIS missions is crucial and highlighted ongoing communication with both SDF partners and Turkish counterparts to address these tensions effectively.

ASSAD’S Fall Rocks Syria: Russia’s Strategic Nightmare

09 December 2024 — The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria marks a major shift after 14 years of civil war. Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, has been ousted, leaving these powers to handle the fallout. This change challenges Russia’s strategic interests in the Middle East.

Russia aimed to maintain its influence in the region through military bases like Khmeimim and Tartus. With Assad out, these assets are now at risk. Rebekah Koffler calls this a strategic defeat for Russia amid its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Ksenia Svetlova from the Atlantic Council criticized Russia’s failure to keep its promises in Syria. She noted that Moscow’s abandonment of Assad makes it look like an unreliable ally, unlike U.S. support for Israel during crises. This perception weakens Russia’s position among Middle Eastern allies.

Former President Trump commented on the situation saying, “Assad is gone,” highlighting the rebels’ success against the longtime dictator. The event underscores shifting power dynamics and raises questions about future regional stability and alliances.

ISRAELI TROOPS Reclaim Strategic Mount Hermon Peak: A Bold Move

08 December 2024 — Israel has made a bold move by returning troops to the peak of Mount Hermon, a strategic location in the region. This is the first time Israeli forces have been on the mountain’s summit since the Yom Kippur War in 1973. The mountain is vital due to its height and military importance.

During the Yom Kippur War, Syria and Egypt launched a surprise attack on Israel, capturing an Israeli base lower on Mount Hermon. Despite initial setbacks, Israel reclaimed both Syrian and Israeli positions through intense battles involving paratroopers landing at the peak. The conflict ended with Israel returning Syria’s base as part of a peace agreement.

Today, a memorial stands on Mount Hermon’s slopes honoring Golani brigade soldiers who fell during that war. This recent troop movement highlights ongoing tensions and strategic interests in this historically contested area between Israel and Syria.

ASSAD FLEES as Rebels Take Damascus: A NEW Dawn for Syria

08 December 2024 — Syrian leader Bashar Assad has fled the country after rebels seized control of Damascus, reports Reuters. Assad and his family have reportedly left Syria, though their destination is unknown. Syrian state TV aired a video statement announcing Assad’s overthrow and the release of all prisoners.

The statement urged opposition fighters and citizens to protect state institutions in “the free Syrian state.” It celebrated unity among Syrians of all sects and ethnic groups. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali said he lost contact with Assad on Saturday night.

Celebrations erupted in Damascus as crowds gathered in central squares, chanting anti-Assad slogans and firing celebratory gunshots. The fall of the Assad regime marks a major shift in Middle East power dynamics after nearly 14 years of civil war.

This collapse ends over 50 years of Assad family rule in Syria, signaling a new chapter for a nation embroiled in conflict with Islamist rebels seeking change.

TRUMP’S Triumph Ignites Outrage: Just Stop OIL Strikes Back

06 November 2024 — On Wednesday, Donald Trump claimed victory in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, winning support from over 70 million Americans. Yet, not everyone was pleased. The far-left group Just Stop Oil showed their anger by splashing bright orange paint on the U.S. Embassy in London.

Just Stop Oil slammed corporate power and fossil fuel industries, saying they control major political parties and are the real winners of the election. They called Trump a “fake populist,” claiming he ignores what they see as vital — stopping oil and gas drilling. The group urged regular people to act since they believe no leaders will make needed changes.

Activist Joseph Aggarwal was detained by police after joining the protest. He voiced concerns about a lack of true democracy across Western nations, arguing voters get similar policies no matter which party wins, worsening living conditions and climate issues. Aggarwal accused Trump of using public frustration to help billionaires while ignoring urgent environmental problems.

US STRIKES on ISIS in Syria: A Powerful Blow to Terrorism

30 October 2024 — U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced a series of successful strikes on ISIS locations in Syria, eliminating up to 35 terrorists. The operation targeted multiple camps and took out several senior ISIS leaders, with no civilian casualties reported.

CENTCOM stated that these airstrikes will disrupt ISIS’s ability to plan and execute attacks against civilians, the U.S., allies, and partners in the region. The command emphasized its commitment to degrading ISIS’s operational capabilities alongside regional allies to ensure the group’s defeat.

This announcement follows an incident in Iraq where two U.S. service members were injured during an operation that killed at least seven ISIS operatives. Both service members are reportedly in stable condition as CENTCOM continues its efforts against terrorism in the Middle East.

BANGLADESH CHAOS: Prime Minister Flees Amid Violent Protests

05 August 2024 — Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country Monday after weeks of protests turned violent. Thousands of demonstrators stormed her official residence, challenging her 15-year rule.

Her departure has sparked further instability in the nation already grappling with high unemployment and corruption. Dhaka’s main airport suspended operations amid security concerns as Hasina was seen boarding a military helicopter with her sister.

The military chief, Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman, promised to restore order and discussed forming an interim government with opposition leaders. Celebrations erupted in the streets, but some protesters attacked government buildings, setting fires and ransacking properties.

NEW SECURITY Bill In South Sudan Sparks Western Outrage

12 July 2024 — The U.S. and other western nations criticized a new security bill in South Sudan that allows detaining people without warrants. They argue it undermines political and civil freedoms ahead of the December elections.

Passed on July 3, the bill has jeopardized peace talks and raised fears of arbitrary arrests before the country’s first-ever elections. President Salva Kiir has 30 days to either approve or veto the law.

Nine western envoys, including those from the U.S. and Britain, stated that signing this bill would hinder free political and civic expression, essential for peaceful elections. The U.S. State Department emphasized creating an environment where citizens can express views without fear is crucial for democracy in South Sudan.

BIDEN’S SHOCK Move: Sanctions on Israeli Military Could Ignite Tensions

22 April 2024 — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is considering imposing sanctions on the Israel Defense Forces’ battalion “Netzah Yehuda.” This unprecedented move could be announced soon and might heighten existing tensions between the U.S. and Israel, further strained by conflicts in Gaza.

Israeli leaders are firmly against these potential sanctions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to defend Israeli military actions vigorously. “If anyone thinks they can impose sanctions on a unit in the IDF, I will fight it with all my might,” Netanyahu declared.

The Netzah Yehuda battalion has been under fire for alleged human rights violations involving Palestinian civilians. Notably, a 78-year-old Palestinian-American died after being detained by this battalion at a West Bank checkpoint last year, drawing intense international criticism and now possibly leading to U.S. sanctions against them.

This development could mark a significant shift in U.S.-Israel relations, potentially impacting diplomatic ties and military collaborations between the two nations if sanctions are implemented.

IRAN’S BOLD Strike: Over 300 Drones Target Israel in Unprecedented Assault

15 April 2024 — In a bold move, Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles at Israel, marking a major spike in hostilities. This attack was directly from Iran, not through its usual channels like Hezbollah or the Houthi rebels. President Biden called this assault “unprecedented.” Despite the massive scale of this strike, Israel’s defense systems managed to intercept about 99 percent of these threats.

Iran hailed this as a “victory,” even though the damage was minimal and only one Israeli life was lost. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), known as a terrorist organization by the U.S., spearheaded this attack after vowing revenge on Israel for targeting their leaders. This move is seen by many as proof of Iran feeling more bold due to current U.S. foreign policy decisions.

This aggressive act followed Iran’s expansion of its drone and missile programs after an important deadline from the Obama-era nuclear deal passed without action on October 18, 2023. This occurred despite Iran breaking the deal’s terms and backing terrorist attacks against Israel, including a recent massacre led by Hamas with Tehran’s support.

Iran’s latest actions show it ignoring international deals and underline worries about its nuclear plans. The regime’s pride in attacking Israel points to its ongoing threat to peace in the Middle East and worldwide security, sparking debate on how best to contain it moving

UKRAINE’S Downfall: The Shocking Inside Story of the Most Devastating Ukrainian Defeat in a Year

11 March 2024 — SLOVIANSK, Ukraine — Ukrainian soldiers found themselves in an unrelenting battle, defending the same industrial block for months with no relief. In Avdiivka, troops had been stationed for nearly two years of the war without any sign of replacements.

As ammunition dwindled and Russian airstrikes intensified, even fortified positions were not safe from advanced “glide bombs”.

The Russian forces employed a strategic onslaught. They first sent lightly armed soldiers to exhaust Ukraine’s ammunition reserves before deploying their well-trained troops. Special forces and saboteurs staged ambushes from tunnels, adding to the chaos. During this turmoil, a battalion commander mysteriously vanished according to law enforcement documents seen by The Associated Press.

In less than a week, Ukraine lost Avdiivka — a city that had been defended long before Russia’s full-scale invasion began. Outnumbered and nearly surrounded, they chose withdrawal over facing another deadly siege like Mariupol where thousands of troops were either captured or killed. Ten Ukrainian soldiers interviewed by The Associated Press painted a grim picture of how dwindling supplies, overwhelming Russian force numbers and military mismanagement led to this catastrophic defeat.

Viktor Biliak is an infantryman with the 110th Brigade who has been stationed since March 2022 said that

PUTIN’S Dark Turn: From Authoritarian to Totalitarian — The Shocking Evolution of Russia

06 March 2024 — In the wake of opposition leader Boris Nemtsov’s assassination in February 2015, shock and anger rippled through over 50,000 Muscovites. Yet, when well-known opposition figure Alexei Navalny died behind bars in February 2024, those mourning his loss faced riot police and arrests. This change signals a chilling transformation in Vladimir Putin’s Russia — from merely tolerating dissent to brutally crushing it.

Since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, arrests, trials and long prison sentences have become the norm. The Kremlin now targets not just political rivals but also human rights organizations, independent media outlets, civil society groups and LGBTQ+ activists. Oleg Orlov, co-chair of Memorial — a Russian human rights organization — has branded Russia as a “totalitarian state”.

Orlov himself was arrested and sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for criticizing the military’s actions in Ukraine just one month after his damning statement. According to Memorial’s estimates, there are nearly 680 political prisoners currently held captive in Russia.

Another organization called OVD-Info reported that as of November there were over a thousand

BUKELE’S TRIUMPH: El Salvador’s ‘Charming Tyrant’ Sweeps Re-Election

06 February 2024 — El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, who proudly wears the label of the “planet’s most charming tyrant,” celebrated a decisive re-election victory this Sunday. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was quick to extend his congratulations, praising the efforts of election monitors and expressing readiness to collaborate with the freshly elected officials after their June inauguration.

Blinken highlighted the enduring bond between the U.S and El Salvador, a relationship that has endured for over a century and a half. He asserted that occurrences in El Salvador have direct consequences on U.S interests at home and abroad. Furthermore, he affirmed that good governance, inclusive economic growth, assurance of fair trials, and human rights would remain at the forefront under their Root Causes Strategy.

Preliminary election results indicate Bukele clinching victory with an astounding 83% support rate, leaving his closest rival trailing far behind at just 7%. The confident president had already proclaimed himself as winner before official results were released, asserting he had garnered more than 85% of votes.

US Troops UNDER ATTACK: Iran-Backed Militias Blamed for Deadly Drone Strike

31 January 2024 — A devastating drone attack in Jordan, which tragically claimed the lives of three U.S. service members, has been attributed to the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an organization supported by Iran. The assault also resulted in injuries for at least 40 troops stationed at Tower 22, a covert base vital to American operations in Syria. This alarming incident unfolds as President Joe Biden weighs his retaliatory options.

In a stern warning, Iran vowed to “respond decisively” if the U.S. takes action against Tehran for the attack. John Kirby, spokesman for the National Security Council, confirmed that this premeditated strike was orchestrated by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq and included involvement from militant group Kataib Hezbollah.

Kirby dismissed an announcement from Kataib Hezbollah about halting military operations against occupation forces as untrustworthy. He stressed that they are not alone in launching attacks on U.S forces. Amid this escalating situation, President Biden is set to attend a solemn ceremony honoring fallen troops at Dover Air Force Base this Friday.

Additional American strikes could potentially intensify tensions within an already unstable region struggling with Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza since

President Noboa SNUBS Maduro’s Aid, COURAGEOUSLY Seeks US Assistance Instead

25 January 2024 — Ecuador’s leader, President Noboa, has decisively spurned an offer of support from Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro. Instead, he has chosen to seek aid from the United States. This decision follows Maduro’s suggestion that Noboa should accept his help rather than succumb to what he labels as U.S. Southern Command’s “interventionism” and “colonialism”.

During a recent interview on Tuesday, Noboa responded to Maduro’s proposition with a firm “Thank you, but no thank you.” He went on to clarify that his decision was not based on personal disagreement with Maduro but stemmed from the need to address pressing issues within his own nation.

Earlier this week, President Noboa engaged in talks with U.S. officials about potential security collaborations. He sought weapons, technology and training for Ecuador’s security forces from the U.S., while also exploring options for refinancing Ecuador’s external debt.

Despite warnings from Maduro about inviting the “devil” into Ecuador — referring indirectly to the United States — and despite criticism at home over his anti-gang policies, President Noboa remains unwavering in his pursuit of American assistance.

PUTIN’S POWER Play: Announces Candidacy Amidst Turmoil, Aiming to Cement His Iron Grip on Russia

08 December 2023 — Vladimir Putin has announced his intention to run in the upcoming presidential election in March. This move is seen as an attempt to prolong his authoritarian rule over Russia. Despite instigating a costly war in Ukraine and enduring internal conflicts, including an attack on the Kremlin itself, Putin’s support remains unshaken after nearly 24 years at the helm.

In June, a rebellion led by mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin stirred up rumors of Putin’s control waning. However, Prigozhin’s death in a suspicious plane crash two months later only served to reinforce the image of Putin’s absolute authority.

Putin made his decision public following a Kremlin award ceremony where war veterans and others encouraged him to seek reelection. Tatiana Stanovaya from the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center pointed out that this understated announcement is likely part of the Kremlin’s strategy to emphasize Putin’s humility and commitment rather than making loud campaign declarations.

BRAVERMAN SHOCKER: Home Secretary Booted Amid Fierce Police Bias Controversy

13 November 2023 — In the early hours of Monday, Suella Braverman was abruptly dismissed from her position as Home Secretary. This marks the first significant shake-up in the much-anticipated cabinet reshuffle. The decision follows a rising tide of political opposition demanding her departure in light of her critique on police conduct during recent Israel-Palestine protests in London.

Braverman had pointed fingers at senior police officers for displaying left-wing bias. She referenced incidents where those opposing lockdown measures were dealt with severely, while Black Lives Matter protestors were allegedly permitted to flout rules. Moreover, she argued that right-wing and nationalist demonstrators faced harsh consequences, whereas pro-Palestinian groups exhibiting similar conduct were largely overlooked.

Her remarks ignited a firestorm of criticism, predominantly from left-leaning detractors and some centrists within the Conservative Party. Despite facing backlash, Braverman continued to express concerns over Palestine protests on Sunday. She hinted at inadequate policing by Metropolitan Police leadership that needed attention.

Whether these comments were strategic moves towards leadership or attempts at legacy building remains uncertain.

ISRAELI Raid on GAZA and US Strikes on Iran-Linked Sites in Syria: The Tense Standoff Escalates

27 October 2023 — In a sudden move, Israeli forces carried out a brief but intense raid on northern Gaza. The military operation, which took place overnight, was aimed at Hamas fighters and their anti-tank weaponry. This action is seen as groundwork for a possible ground invasion, marking the third such Israeli raid since the conflict erupted.

Meanwhile, responding to drone and missile assaults on U.S. bases and personnel in the region, the U.S. military executed airstrikes early Friday morning. These strikes targeted two locations in eastern Syria associated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), according to Pentagon reports.

Arab leaders unitedly called for an immediate cease-fire on Thursday. Their plea aims to alleviate civilian suffering by allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza where residents are grappling with severe shortages of food, water, medicine while UN workers struggle with dwindling fuel supplies for relief missions.

The Health Ministry of Hamas-controlled Gaza reported that over 7,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict — an unverified figure thus far. On Israel’s end, there have been more than 1,400 casualties