The Tragic Defacement of Syria: A Multi-Faceted Analysis

The issue of Syria is complex and multifaceted, with various historical, political, and social factors contributing to its current state. The major question is: who is responsible for the ruin and destruction of Syria? This article delves into the causes and actors involved in the defacement of Syria, highlighting the devastating impact on the country and its people.

Historical Context and Invasions

Before the conflict, Syria was shaped by numerous invasions and political interventions. Religious and ethnic groups, including Arab invaders, Turkish Kurds, and the British and French, have all influenced the political landscape. Even the Turkmani and mixed Damascus residents, who are descendants of Muslim invaders, were present. Honorable mentions include French diaspora and Christian jihadist diaspora, as well as Iranian diaspora leaders of Tahrir Al Sharmoot, contributing to a fragmented national identity.

The Sykes-Picot agreement of 1916, named after the British and French diplomats who negotiated it, played a significant role in the current political boundaries of the region. The original plan was to divide the area into four different countries based on tribal lines, rather than the current state structure, which has caused further fragmentation and instability.

Political Interventions and Civil Unrest

Political interventions from outside actors have also been crucial in the destruction of Syria. The U.S., the occupiers of Palestine, and the spy sections of the UK and France were not interested in a strong Syria. They viewed Syria as a potential threat, and the so-called civil war was designed to weaken the country. However, these efforts have backfired, with Syria proving to be a formidable opponent that is not easily subdued.

From 1965 to 2000, Hafez al-Assad ruled Syria with a strong and often autocratic government. His son, Bashar al-Assad, continued this rule, imposing a totalitarian regime known for its use of violence and suppression of opposition. The ruling class in Syria, the Alawites, belong to a Shia Islamic sect known as Twelvers, while the majority of the population is Sunni, which poses a significant challenge to governance and stability.

A tipping point was reached in March 2011 when Syrian police officers insulted the parents of arrested children who had written anti-government graffiti on their school walls. This sparked a series of protests that escalated into the Syrian Civil War. By 2011, the violence had escalated, with 6 civilians killed in Daraa, a city in southern Syria. The subsequent widespread unrest led to a brutal civil war, with an estimated 583,000 people killed and 12 million displaced internally and externally. Five million children were also affected by the conflict, further undermining the well-being of the future generation.

Chemical Weapons and War Crimes

The use of chemical weapons in Syria has been a recurring issue, with 336 chemical attacks reported since 2012. The Syrian regime, Russia, and other state actors have been implicated in these attacks, which have caused widespread destruction and death. The use of chemical weapons is considered a war crime, and there is strong evidence suggesting that the regime is at fault.

Rebels and opposition groups have not been known to possess the capabilities to launch such high-caliber chemical weapons. Additionally, the logistical and technical aspects of chemical warfare, including air force support, missile launches, and launch systems, all point to the involvement of the regime rather than rebel forces. This has led to accusations and counter-accusations, similar to the Cold War-era proxy battles orchestrated by superpowers. The recent involvement of Russia in supporting the Syrian regime has further complicated the situation, with other world powers blaming the regime for alleged chemical attacks.

Conclusion: The Destructive Forces at Play

The destruction of Syria is a result of a combination of historical, political, and social factors, often exacerbated by outside forces. The civil war in Syria has caused massive human suffering, with millions of lives lost and displaced. The international community remains divided, with no clear resolution in sight. The ongoing use of chemical weapons by the regime and the complex web of political interventions continue to fuel the conflict, making it one of the most significant humanitarian crises of our time.

Further Reading and Research

To gain a deeper understanding of the Syrian conflict and its historical context, readers are encouraged to consult reputable sources such as the United Nations, the Syrian National Coalition, and academic publications. Further research can also be conducted on the Sykes-Picot agreement, the role of external actors, and the impact of chemical weapons on the conflict.