Part 4/8:
A crucial aspect of this transition involves the power vacuum left behind by the Assad regime. As with previous cases of regime change in the Middle East, the fallout may lead to further extremism. With various rebel factions vying for power and allegiance, the emergence of a jihadist-led government raises fears about the stability of the nation and the safety of minority populations, including Christians and Alawites. Analysts note that the region remains deeply divided along ethnic and tribal lines, complicating the transition further.