The Syrian Civil War Revisited: Geopolitical Shifts, Humanitarian Fallout, And The Role of Regional Actors (2018-2025)

Abstract

The research examines the development of geopolitical circumstances, humanitarian effects, and local changes within the Syrian Civil War from 2018 to 2025. Changes in foreign policy allowed the government of Assad to recover territorial power from the rebel groups, and the conflict came to an end. This research examines external factors, including Russia alongside Iran and Turkey, and America, that have influenced post-war Syria and discusses the hurdles to the return of refugees, accountability for war crimes, and rebuilding infrastructure under the sanctions. This research uses qualitative content analysis and policy review methods to examine the shift in format for action from active conflict in Syria to the current divided authoritarian regime's pursuit of stability. This study aims to contribute to the debates on proxy wars, post-conflict government arrangements, and regional stability in the Middle East.

Keywords:  Syrian Civil War, Proxy war, Non-state actors, Humanitarian crisis, Authoritarian resilience, UNHCR and humanitarian law, Chemical weapons in Syria, ISIS and HTS militias