The situation in Syria has once again taken center stage in global affairs as the country’s interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, reportedly fled Damascus with his family amid a wave of airstrikes widely attributed to Israel. The rapidly evolving military developments have raised serious concerns about Syria’s stability, especially given that al-Sharaa only assumed power earlier this year following the dramatic fall of Bashar al-Assad’s long-standing regime.
The strikes, which began on July 15, targeted key sites in the Syrian capital, including the General Staff headquarters and the area surrounding the presidential palace. These highly precise attacks delivered not only physical destruction but also a significant psychological blow, effectively paralyzing government functions for hours. According to the Syrian Ministry of Health, three civilians were killed and more than 30 injured.
Al-Sharaa’s current whereabouts remain unclear and a subject of speculation. Some reports suggest he may have escaped to Idlib—a region known for strong influence from religious militant groups. Others point to Turkey, a country with which al-Sharaa has maintained long-standing ties. Back in February, he met with Turkish officials to discuss military cooperation and the establishment of Turkish airbases in central Syria, as well as the formation of a new Syrian army. Turkey, which has long sought to expand its influence in northern Syria, may now serve not only as a safe haven for al-Sharaa but also as a potential platform for his next move.
Al-Sharaa’s departure marks a turning point, revealing the fragility of Syria’s transitional leadership. Almost immediately after the escalation in Damascus, Syrian forces began withdrawing from the southern region, where Israeli strikes had previously targeted government troops in Suwayda province. Israel claims its operations were aimed at protecting the Druze minority in the area. The use of armed drones and precision strikes reportedly caused chaos among Syrian officers, prompting the announcement of a unilateral ceasefire and a military retreat.
International analysts believe the strikes on Damascus were not only tactical but also symbolic. They served as a message to the new Syrian administration: any attempt to shift the balance of power along the southern border will be met with force. Meanwhile, observers note that Israel’s actions likely align with the interests of regional players who are wary of the growing influence of militant elements within Syria’s new leadership.
Al-Sharaa remains a highly controversial figure. On one hand, he came to power following a popular uprising and the collapse of Assad’s rule. On the other, his ties to armed groups have sparked concern across the region. In the current climate, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Syria’s transitional phase is far from over, and the fragile balance of power could unravel at any moment.
With political uncertainty gripping Damascus, international actors are now asking: who will step up to restore stability? Will it be a regional power with deep strategic interests, or a broader international coalition seeking a diplomatic solution? One thing is certain—Syria is once again at the heart of a complex geopolitical struggle, and its immediate future may depend heavily on the fate of a man who may no longer be in control of the very revolution he once led.
