How to leave a legacy

Yesterday, Bashar Assad, the leader of Syria, was forced to leave his country as the people let him know he was no longer welcome. President Joe Biden announced the outcome, hopeful for the historically war-torn country:

At long last, the Assad regime has fallen.

The fall of this regime is a fundamental act of justice.

It is a moment of historic opportunity for the long-suffering people of Syria to build a better future for their country.

It is also a moment of risk and uncertainty.

— President Biden (@POTUS) December 8, 2024

New opportunities are now opening up for the people of Syria and for the entire region.

Looking ahead, the United States will do the following.

First, we will engage with Syrian groups – including within the process led by the United Nations – to establish the transition away…

— President Biden (@POTUS) December 9, 2024

More information can be found in the White House website press call transcript. Biden’s administration draws connections indicating that the fall of Assad is, in large part, a result of US actions in Ukraine and Israel.

Syrians have suffered greatly over the years, with many lives lost and millions of people displaced.

What do you think will happen next? Will the people of Syria finally find peace? Will external countries take advantage of the current state? How will Assad be remembered as he takes shelter in Moscow? Was overthrowing Assad the right thing to do?