Part 6/8:
The Fallout from Assad's Collapse
As Assad fled to Russia to escape the chaos, the impact on the regional power dynamics became apparent. Various external actors are likely to scramble to take advantage of this power vacuum. Iran may seek to maintain influence but will face challenges in smuggling weapons and supplies to Hezbollah through a potentially hostile new government in Syria.
Turkey stands poised to exert considerable influence in shaping Syria's future, especially given its complex relationship with rebel factions. The Kurds, previously allied with the U.S. against ISIS, find themselves in a precarious situation, seemingly caught between the remnants of Assad’s government and the newly empowered rebel forces.