Marco Rubio Warns of Imminent Collapse in Syria, Predicts ‘Epic’ New Civil War
In a stark warning delivered on Capitol Hill, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio raised alarms over Syria’s precarious political situation, predicting that the war-torn country may plunge into another devastating civil war within weeks. His comments came during a Senate hearing where he urged urgent international support for Syria’s transitional leadership.
A Nation on the Brink: Rubio Sounds the Alarm
Rubio did not mince words about the gravity of Syria’s situation. “Frankly, the transitional authority… is maybe weeks — not many months — away from collapse and a full-scale civil war of epic proportions,” he told lawmakers.
The Fallout of Assad’s Fall: A Fragile Peace Cracking
After more than a decade of conflict, Syria’s long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad was overthrown in December in a lightning offensive led by Islamist-backed forces. Though Assad’s removal marked an end to one chapter of violence, Rubio warned that a new and bloodier one may soon begin, driven by sectarian unrest and political instability.
Violence Against Minorities Raises Fear of Renewed Chaos
A recent wave of brutal attacks targeting Alawite and Druze minorities has intensified concerns. Rubio blamed the sectarian fractures on Assad’s rule, accusing him of sowing division to maintain power. “Assad deliberately pitted these groups against each other,” Rubio stated.
Trump Shifts Policy, Engages With Controversial New Leader
President Donald Trump recently visited Saudi Arabia, where he lifted sanctions previously imposed under Assad’s rule and met with Syria’s new transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa — a former jihadist figure now repackaged as the country’s civilian leader.
From Watchlist to World Stage: The Rise of Ahmed al-Sharaa
Once on the U.S. most-wanted list for alleged jihadist affiliations, al-Sharaa now dons a business suit and leads Syria’s interim government. Trump described him as a “young, attractive guy,” signaling a dramatic change in U.S. diplomatic strategy.
Rubio Skeptical but Hopeful: “Engagement May Be Our Only Chance”
In a humorous yet pointed remark, Rubio noted, “The transitional authority figures… didn’t pass their background check with the FBI.” Yet he added that U.S. engagement is critical. “It may work out, it may not. But without engagement, failure is guaranteed.”
Turkey and Saudi Arabia Shape the New Syrian Power Structure
The U.S. policy shift follows lobbying from Turkey and Saudi Arabia — both key backers of the Islamist factions that led the assault against Assad. Rubio acknowledged their influence but stressed that Washington must take a more measured approach.
Minority Protections and Governance Still in Question
The U.S. had earlier made it clear that Syria’s transitional government must safeguard minority rights. However, Rubio indicated that such benchmarks remain unmet, and the fragile administration could quickly unravel under pressure.
Economic Stability and Investment Still Distant Dreams
While the U.S. hopes its diplomatic pivot might boost economic recovery and international investment in Syria, Rubio warned that none of that will be possible without a stable and inclusive government — something still far from reality.
