Middle East expert Steven Heydemann does not see quick elections as a panacea for Syria. And he warns: A weakened Iran could succumb to a dangerous temptation.
Mr. Heydemann, why were the rebels successful after all these years?
A significant factor was the weakening of Iran, Russia and Hezbollah. Assad’s key allies could no longer provide the support they had in the past. Another factor was that the rebels were better trained and equipped and coordinated much better than before. In addition, the Assad regime was pretty hollowed out. Government forces were simply not prepared to defend their territory. Even the rebels may have been surprised at how quickly the regime collapsed.
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
