President Joe Biden has called the collapse of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime a historic opportunity, not only for the Syrian people but also for the United States. Assad’s fall weakens Russia and Iran in the Middle East, provides another ally in the fight against ISIS, and could lead to the release of missing journalist Austin Tice. Despite the risks involved in dealing with rebel groups in Syria, the Biden administration is ready to work with a new government determined by the Syrian people.
The collapse of Assad’s regime is a blow to Russia, which supported the ex-dictator’s father and continued backing Syria during the civil war. The U.S., while having limited interest in Syria, has worked to contain ISIS and conducted air strikes following Assad’s fall to ensure the terrorist group does not regain strength. The U.S. military has made it clear they will not allow ISIS to take advantage of the current situation in Syria.
The fall of Assad’s government also presents an opportunity to find out the fate of missing journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared in Syria in 2012. Biden believes Tice is still alive, and with Assad out of power, efforts are being made to secure locations where he could be held. Overall, the collapse of Assad’s regime is seen as a positive development for the U.S., allowing for new partnerships in Syria and potentially leading to the resolution of long-standing issues like Tice’s disappearance.
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