Modern history of Syria

The Syrian Civil War began in 2011 after pro-democracy protests swept through Syria during the Arab Spring, threatening the rule of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. His violent suppression of protesters escalated into war between Assad’s forces and opposition militias. An offensive led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham resulted in Assad being removed from power in December 2024. The Syrian Civil War has been a source of significant instability in the Middle East since 2011, and the resultant civilian displacement and refugee exodus constitute one of the worst humanitarian crises in modern history.

From 2006 to 2010 Syria suffered its worst drought in modern history. The combined effects of the drought and preexisting economic disparities under the Assad regime contributed to the first nonviolent pro-reform protests, in 2011, riding the wave of Arab Spring uprisings. Divisions between the country’s Sunni majority and the ruling Alawite elite were also a factor. The Bashar al-Assad regime’s harsh military crackdown escalated tensions, and by September 2011 the peaceful protests had become an armed insurgency.

After the fall of the Assad Government in December 2024, more than 1 million Syrians have returned, but over 14 million remain displaced or in need. The situation remains highly challenging, with over 70% of the population needing humanitarian assistance.