THREAD: syrias political chaos assad ousted us middle

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.

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.

RUSSIA’S Military Drills in Syria: A Powerful Warning to Ukraine

04 December 2024 — Russia recently held major military drills around Syria, showing off its naval and air strength. The exercises involved 1,000 personnel, ten ships, and 24 aircraft. This display is seen as support for Syria and a warning to Ukraine.

The Kremlin called the drills “joint” operations that follow international law. Footage showed modern frigates like Admiral Gorshkov with older Syrian missile boats. Russia also tested its Oniks anti-ship cruise missile during these exercises.

A key moment was the launch of a Zircon hypersonic cruise missile from a frigate, praised by President Putin as a “superweapon.” The Zircon can target ships and land installations. Moscow said another launch from the submarine Novorossiysk involved a Kalibir missile, used often against Ukraine.

These missiles worry Kyiv due to their nuclear capabilities and effectiveness in warfare. Ukraine keeps a close watch on Russian Kalibir-capable ships in the Black Sea as part of its defense strategy against Russian aggression.

EUROPEAN Allies RALLY to Defend Ukraine as Trump Era Looms

12 November 2024 — London, Paris, and Warsaw are forming a core group to support Ukraine against Russia, anticipating changes in U.S. policy under a possible Trump presidency. Donald Trump hasn’t detailed his plans for ending the conflict but has mentioned options like land swaps or demilitarized zones. These strategies clash with Ukraine’s goal of total victory over Russia.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to discuss defense matters and support for Ukraine. They want outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden to allow Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles against Russia before any Trump policy shift. The U.S., however, worries this could escalate tensions with Moscow significantly.

A UK government source stressed the urgency of maximizing efforts before Trump’s potential presidency begins on January 20th. Starmer and Macron aim to strengthen Ukraine’s position as winter nears and after Trump’s re-election announcement days ago, despite financial challenges faced by both the UK and France amid budgetary issues.

Poland, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusks, is also increasing its role in this emerging anti-Trump alliance within Europe. Meetings between Polish leaders and European counterparts are planned to involve NATO members from Scandinavia as well.

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.

COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY President Quits Amid Campus Chaos

15 August 2024 — Columbia University President Minouche Shafik resigned Wednesday after a brief, tumultuous tenure. Her resignation follows heavy scrutiny over her handling of protests and campus divisions related to the Israel-Hamas war. The Ivy League school faced intense student demonstrations, leading to police intervention and clashes.

The announcement comes days after three Columbia University Deans resigned for exchanging disparaging texts about Jewish life and antisemitism. Shafik was criticized by Republicans in Congress for not adequately addressing antisemitism concerns on campus. She began her role in July last year but announced her resignation just weeks before the new semester starts on Sept. 3.

In an emailed letter, Shafik mentioned progress in important areas but admitted it was difficult to overcome divergent views within the community. She cited the toll on her family as a reason for stepping down, believing it would help Columbia navigate future challenges better. The university has started restricting campus access to curb potential disruptions as classes resume soon.

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.

MADURO SHOCKS With Sympathy for Trump After Assassination Attempt

15 July 2024 — Former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The shooter injured Trump and killed Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief.

Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro condemned the attack on Trump during his own campaign rally. Maduro’s comments were unusually sympathetic towards Trump, wishing him a "speedy recovery.

Maduro stated, “We have been adversaries but I wish President Trump health and a long life.” This marks a significant shift from his typical hostile rhetoric against the former U.S. president.

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

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

TIME to STOP Iran’s Terror Funding: The Unholy Alliance Exposed

31 January 2024 — The current geopolitical landscape has raised serious concerns, according to a recent statement by Lawler. He drew attention to an emerging alliance between China, Russia, and Iran that is becoming increasingly visible. Notably, he identified China as the largest consumer of Iranian petroleum. These sales are providing financial support for dangerous terrorist groups.

Lawler stressed the need for immediate action against Iran in response to over 150 attacks on U.S. military bases and personnel since October 7. Tragically, these assaults have resulted in three servicemembers losing their lives. He called on the administration for a decisive response against Iran.

A bipartisan bill designed to curb illegal funds supporting terrorism was approved in the House after October 7 but has hit a roadblock in the Senate. Lawler urged both Senate and administration officials to advance this bill as part of a comprehensive strategy against these threats.

Lawler believes that an effective response should not only be military or diplomatic but also economic: cutting off funding at its roots. This multi-pronged approach is essential for effectively fighting terrorism.

UN Chief PLEADS for US Aid to Gaza Despite HAMAS Controversy

28 January 2024 — Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, has called on the United States and other countries to continue funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The UNRWA is a crucial aid organization in Gaza. This plea comes even as Israel accuses several UNRWA employees of participating in a Hamas attack that sparked a war and created deadly instability throughout the Middle East.

President Joe Biden recently reported the first U.S. military casualties in this region since hostilities began, blaming them on drone strikes by Iran-backed militias near Jordan’s border with Syria. In parallel developments, U.S. officials are said to be close to reaching a cease-fire agreement that could halt two months of intense Israeli-Palestinian conflict which has reportedly taken over 26,000 Palestinian lives according to local health authorities.

Guterres cautioned that if funding is not resumed soon, UNRWA may have to cut back aid to more than 2 million Palestinians living in Gaza as early as February due to an escalating humanitarian crisis including potential starvation risks for one-fourth of its population. He stressed that while those implicated in alleged misconduct must face justice, it should not result in punishment for other humanitarian workers or obstruct aid delivery for desperate populations they serve.

Guterres confirmed nine out of twelve accused staff members were immediately dismissed while one was

Turkey UNLEASHES Fury: AIRSTRIKES Escalate on Kurdish Groups Following Soldier Deaths

26 December 2023 — Turkey has intensified its airstrikes against Kurdish groups in Syria and northern Iraq. This fierce response was triggered by the deaths of 12 Turkish soldiers in Iraq over the weekend. The Turkish defense ministry asserts that at least 26 militants were neutralized during these strikes.

In northeast Syria, Monday’s airstrikes led to the loss of eight civilians, including two women. Farhad Shami, a representative for the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, reported this on X, previously known as Twitter. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights verified that an additional 12 individuals were injured.

Turkish officials blame Friday’s infiltration of a northern Iraq base on militants linked with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). This event resulted in six Turkish soldiers losing their lives. In ensuing conflicts with Kurdish militants, another six soldiers were killed prompting Ankara to initiate strikes on PKK-linked locations in Iraq and Syria.

As per the UK-based war monitor, Turkey has executed 128 strikes in northeast Syria this year alone. These attacks have caused 94 casualties so far. The escalating conflict highlights Ankara’s resolve to retaliate against perceived threats from Kurdish separatist groups.

ISRAEL-HAMAS Conflict: The Rising Tensions and Shocking Russian War Crime Probes

10 December 2023 — Defense reporter Mike Brest from the Washington Examiner recently delved into the intensifying Israel-Hamas conflict. He sat down with Magazine Executive Editor Jim Antle to discuss this escalating issue, which has seen a worrying increase in casualties in Gaza.

Brest didn’t stop there; he also shed light on ongoing investigations into potential Russian war crimes in Ukraine. This new development brings an added layer of complexity to an already strained global situation.

The persistent conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with Russia’s alleged misdeeds, is stirring unease across the globe. As these situations continue to evolve, they promise to have profound impacts on international relations and worldwide stability.

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.

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