Bashar al-Assad’s Dark Return to the World Stage: A Betrayal of Syrian Refugees
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Hashim Sheikh
- . June 1, 2023
- . Update: June 1, 2023 3:23 pm
For nearly a decade, Bashar al-Assad’s brutal regime in Syria has been responsible for immense suffering, with millions of innocent Syrians forced to flee their homes and hundreds of thousands losing their lives. Despite being widely condemned and accused of war crimes, Assad has shockingly found himself embraced by Arab leaders once more, even receiving an invitation to Cop 28. This op-ed examines the implications of Assad’s resurgence for the millions of refugees who fled his regime, highlighting the dire consequences they face as their plight is further marginalized and their hopes for justice dashed.
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Neglected Refugees and Heightened Challenges
The resurgence of Bashar al-Assad on the world stage has had devastating consequences for the millions of Syrian refugees scattered across neighbouring countries like Lebanon and Turkey. These refugees, already grappling with the trauma of displacement, now face even greater hardships. Anti-refugee sentiment and policies have been on the rise, as host nations increasingly view the refugees as a burden rather than victims deserving of empathy and assistance.
Fear and Uncertainty
Refugees living in Lebanon, for example, have been subjected to a harsh crackdown, leaving them gripped by fear of deportation and its dreadful consequences. Families who sought refuge from Assad’s regime now live in constant dread, with the threat of separation and the possibility of returning to a war-torn homeland hanging over their heads. The psychological toll this uncertainty takes on individuals and families cannot be understated, as their hopes for a better future are dashed and replaced with anxiety and despair.
Assad’s Survival and Political Realities
The question arises as to how Bashar al-Assad managed to survive against all odds and engineer his shocking return to prominence. While his regime’s resilience can partly be attributed to external factors such as power struggles in the region, a desire to normalize relations with a dictator, and a growing drug problem, it is crucial to acknowledge the internal dynamics that have perpetuated his grip on power. The international community’s failure to provide effective support to opposition forces and the lack of a unified response to hold Assad accountable for his crimes have only strengthened his position.
Betrayal of Syrian People
Assad’s dark return to the world stage represents a betrayal of the Syrian people. The normalization of relations with a regime responsible for such immense suffering sends a chilling message to survivors of his atrocities: that their pain and loss are inconsequential, and justice is but a distant dream. It also raises concerns about the future of the Syrian people. Will Western nations be compelled to follow suit and re-establish diplomatic ties with a leader responsible for untold devastation?
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Bashar al-Assad’s return to the world stage is a stark reminder of the international community’s failure to protect the Syrian people and hold accountable those responsible for their suffering. As Assad enjoys renewed legitimacy, Syrian refugees are left to face increased challenges and fears, with their hopes for a better future fading away. It is imperative that the international community remains steadfast in its commitment to justice and support for the Syrian people, ensuring that the dark legacy of Assad’s regime is not forgotten or ignored. Only through sustained efforts can we strive for a future in which justice is served, refugees are protected, and the Syrian people can rebuild their shattered lives
