Syria
Fear of Freedom
For some Arab skeptics, the idea that people from these lands could free themselves from despotism seems so implausible it’s dismissed outright — like prisoners hesitating to walk out of an open cell door. Perhaps, as Arabs, we’ve grown so accustomed to tragedy and humiliation that the concept of victory feels like pure fantasy.
Dawn in Damascus
In the hours since Syria’s dictator fled the country, ending nearly six decades of tyranny, the jubilant scenes emerging from the country recall the enormous losses that preceded them. For those who survived the Assads’ brutal reign, it is very difficult to conceive of something worse that could come after.
Syrians Ponder a Future After Aleppo
Residents of Aleppo and government-held areas in Syria are contemplating what comes next after the stunning recent rebel takeover.
Chasing the Freedom To Write in a Land of Masks
A journalist reflects on his experiences navigating the repression in Syria and the relative freedom of Lebanon. Balancing hope and fear, he delves into the complexities of freedom, identity and the enduring struggle to practice journalism with integrity.
Aleppo’s Christians Weigh an Uncertain Future
The takeover of Aleppo by Islamist rebels has prompted complex emotions of relief and fear among its residents, particularly the Christian minority. While for the moment daily life goes on as before, there are now serious concerns about equal citizenship and the risk of minorities becoming second-class citizens.
Amid Chaos in Aleppo, There Is a Chance To Discuss the Future
After eight years in Lebanon, Aleppine writer Rasha Moubayed returned to Aleppo, a place of supposed safety, shortly before the rebel takeover. Reflecting on the meaning of this moment, she calls for courage, unity and a focus on rebuilding the city.
Assad Was Disengaging From Iran, but His Next Steps Are Unclear
No one expected the swift rebel takeover of Aleppo, but during my visit to Damascus last month almost everyone felt that change was in the air. It appeared that Assad might finally be ready to disentangle himself from Iran, but it’s unclear how he might react to the changing situation.