Syrian rebels overtook the capital of Damascus over the weekend but the future of the country is uncertain, Northeastern University experts say. “It’s a cause for celebration,” says Rima Farah, a visiting lecturer in Jewish studies at Northeastern who studies the cultural and political history of the modern Middle East. “But people now have to look forward to how to proceed and … build a state with a constitution that protects everyone…There’s a lot to take into consideration, but I can understand the hope and the celebrations.”
Now former President Bashar al-Assad fled the country, marking the end of a regime that began with the president’s father in 1970, one that was highly criticized for its autocratic rule. The overthrow signals a new chapter for the country and joyous responses from many who had to flee during 13 years of civil war.
