The Syrian War: Historical Background, Baath Regime and Current Situation

Syria has been the scene of one of the most complex and destructive conflicts in the modern Middle East. The civil war that started in 2011 has become a global crisis, affecting the lives of millions of people. In this article, we will discuss in detail the causes of the Syrian war, the Baath regime, the situation of Bashar al-Assad and the current situation in Syria.

Causes of the Syrian War

The conflict in Syria is based on long-standing social, political and economic problems. These factors rapidly turned into a civil war with the impact of the Arab Spring.

1. The Arab Spring, which started in Tunisia in 2010 and spread to many countries in the Middle East, led to mass protests in Syria demanding democratic reforms. People took to the streets against oppressive rule, corruption and economic inequalities.
2. The Baath regime, which has been in power since 1970, suppressed political opposition and social movements for many years. In particular, understanding governance that ignored ethnic and sectarian differences deepened social unrest.
3. Sectarian Tensions The ethnic and religious structure of Syria is quite diverse. Although the majority of the population consists of Sunni Arabs, the minority Alawite sect (especially the Assad family) dominated the government. This situation triggered sectarian tensions.
4. Economic Problems In the 2000s, the Syrian economy weakened due to poverty, unemployment and drought. Economic difficulties, especially in rural areas, increased discontent against the government.

What is the Baath Regime?

The Baath Party is a political movement founded in the 1940s based on Arab nationalism and socialism. The word ‘Baath’ means ‘resurrection’ in Arabic. The party came to power in Syria in 1963 in a coup d’état and took control of all state institutions.

• Ideology: The Baath Party advocates the unity of the Arab nation and social justice. However, this ideology was implemented with an authoritarian rule in Syria.
• Hafez Assad Period (1970-2000): Hafez Assad, the father of Bashar al-Assad, seized power in a military coup in 1970. The Assad family completely controlled the party and state structure and suppressed the opposition.
• Bashar al-Assad Period: In 2000, after the death of his father, Bashar al-Assad took office, and although he initially promised reforms, his rule became increasingly authoritarian.

Why did Bashar al-Assad flee?

Bashar al-Assad did not flee the country during the civil war in Syria; on the contrary, he managed to stay in power. At the beginning of the civil war, the Assad regime was expected to collapse, but several factors ensured its survival:

1. Military Power and Suppression Policy: Assad harshly suppressed the popular uprisings. This led to the transformation of the conflicts into a civil war in a short time.
2. Russia and Iran’s Support: The Assad regime received great military and financial support, especially from Russia and Iran. This support played a critical role in the regime’s survival.
3. Disorganisation of the Opposition: There was no unity among the opposition groups in Syria. The strengthening of radical groups limited international support.
4. Limited International Intervention: The US and Western countries did not intervene comprehensively to topple the Assad regime. This made it easier for the regime to maintain control.

The situation in Syria Today

Syria is divided after more than a decade of war.

1. Regional Control:
   • Assad Regime: The Assad regime still controls most of the country.
   • North-eastern Syria: Kurdish forces control areas. These groups, supported by the US, have played an essential role in the fight against ISIS.
   • Idlib: This region, where Turkey-backed opposition groups and radical elements are present, is a hotspot of ongoing conflict.
2. Humanitarian Crisis:
   • Millions of people have been displaced. Approximately 6 million people are refugees inside and 6 million outside the country.
   • The Syrian economy has collapsed due to the devastating effects of the war.
3. International Intervention:
   • Russia and Iran: They remain the most important supporters of the regime.
   • Turkey: Organising military operations in northern Syria due to security concerns.
   • Western Countries: Limited interventions focused on humanitarian aid and counter-terrorism.
4. Peace Talks: Peace efforts in Syria continue, particularly under the leadership of the United Nations. However, a lasting solution could not be achieved due to profound differences between the parties.

The Syrian war is one of the most destructive conflicts in modern history. While the war is rooted in historical, political and social factors, international dynamics have further complicated the conflict. Today, Syria remains a divided and crisis-ridden country, far from recovering. To achieve a lasting peace, regional and global actors must cooperate and consider the demands of the Syrian people.