For more than five decades, Syria has been under a grim dictatorship. The Assad government, known for harsh repression, fell swiftly after 14 years of constant conflict. This abrupt change has sparked a sense of unity and celebration among Syrians. But there's a growing concern, particularly in northeast Syria, where the Islamic State (ISIS) once held extensive territory. Despite losing its caliphate, ISIS has remained active, launching almost 700 attacks this year alone. These attacks are increasingly sophisticated and deadly, spreading to new areas. ISIS has also restarted its notorious extortion network, suggesting a worrying level of local knowledge.

The United States has been battling ISIS in Syria and neighboring Iraq for nearly a decade, with about 900 troops dedicated to this mission. As Syria enters a critical phase, swift action is needed to safeguard the progress made so far. The sudden fall of the Assad regime has left a power vacuum that ISIS could exploit. Syria's new leaders must act quickly to address this threat and maintain stability.

Syrians are finally experiencing freedom from a long regime. But the celebration could be short-lived if ISIS resurges. The international community, particularly the U. S. , continues to play a crucial role in combating terrorism. However, Syria's future depends on how effectively its leaders can address the looming threat of ISIS.

Syria's Shift: ISIS Threat Looms Amidst Regime Fall

Actions