The Dilemma at the Region’s Doorstep: Conquest or Democracy?

As the conflict in Syria enters a new chapter, Turkey has emerged as the dominant player on the ground, wielding military and intelligence operations to shape outcomes in its favor. However, Ankara now faces a pivotal moment: Can it sustain its strong role in Syria amid growing economic strain, geopolitical complexities, and the uncertain future of the Syrian state?

In a world that often measures revolutions by their ability to disrupt, Syria’s journey, which began with the Arab Spring of 2011, represents a chronicle of shifting ideologies, geopolitical maneuvers, and relentless human loss.

I am once again flipping through the 2015 book "Syria. When you fail, resist" by my esteemed friend Fehim Taştekin, one of the best journalists who knows the Middle East.

Recently, another dictatorial regime collapsed in the world. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government was overthrown, and he fled the country. The pillars of dictatorship—Russia and Iran—embraced Assad.