Background:
Syria’s political landscape has undergone a major transformation with the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad by militant groups led by Abu Mohammed al-Jolani.
Relevance: GS 2( International Relations).
- Political Overthrow:
- President Bashar al-Assad was overthrown, leading to a power shift in Damascus.
- The new ruling alliance is led by Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and a former senior al-Qaeda militant.
- Promise of Change:
- Al-Jolani pledged a representative government and religious tolerance.
- Impact on Refugees:
- Large numbers of refugees are fleeing to neighboring countries in search of safety.
- Israel’s Military Actions:
- Israel has launched air strikes on suspected chemical weapons and long-range rocket sites to prevent extremist control.
- Israel has also taken control of a buffer zone inside Syria following the withdrawal of Syrian forces.
- Turkiye’s Military Actions:
- Turkiye’s allied opposition forces have captured the town of Manbij from U.S.-backed Kurdish-led forces in northern Syria.
- India’s Call for Peace:
- India has urged a peaceful and inclusive political process in Syria.
- The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the importance of unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity in Syria.