A new era has begun in Syria: Three striking scenarios from Fatih Portakal

The surprise raids by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Syrian National Army, which saw them capture Aleppo, Hama, and Homs, followed by their march on Damascus to end the Bashar al-Assad regime, have opened the doors to a new era in the region.

With the collapse of the 61-year-old Baath regime, reports that Assad has left the country and surfaced in Moscow have dominated the global agenda.

Sözcü TV main news anchor Fatih Portakal explained three possible scenarios awaiting the country following these critical developments in Syria:

There is talk of a liberal and democratic structure under the leadership of HTS. However, looking at the past of HTS leader Jolani, it is noted that such a transformation is difficult. Fatih Portakal stated that this possibility is low.

HTS is expected to establish an oppressive administration. It is being discussed that the methods it implemented in Idlib will also be put into effect in Damascus, and that HTS will bring its own administrators to control the capital.

It is predicted that the international recognition of HTS will remain weak, that armed conflicts could flare up again as of March 2025, and that a civil war stemming from an oppressive administration could begin.