Nilantha Ilangamuwa’s investigative book, After Assad: Is Syria the New Libya in the Mediterranean?, examines the turmoil engulfing Syria in the aftermath of former President Bashar al-Assad’s rule. It explores how foreign interventions, regional power struggles, and internal disintegration have turned the country into a theater of destruction. Drawing from personal experiences and discussions with Syrian journalists, politicians, and activists in cities such as Beijing, Tehran, Doha, and Florence, Ilangamuwa provides a compelling analysis of Syria’s descent into chaos. He describes the stark contrast between the illuminated opulence of cities like Doha and the darkness of war-ravaged regions, reflecting the fractured socio-political fabric of the region.
The book draws parallels between Syria’s current situation and the aftermath of Libya following Muammar Gaddafi’s fall. Ilangamuwa argues that the destruction of state institutions, widespread looting, and territorial conflicts in Syria bear a striking resemblance to the chaos that plagued Libya. He portrays Syria as caught in an uncertain future where military interventions and a vacuum of governance have deepened the instability.
Foreign powers’ roles in Syria’s tragedy are critically examined. Ilangamuwa discusses how global ambitions have exacerbated the conflict, with Turkey’s suppression of Kurdish autonomy and its handling of the Syrian refugee crisis driven by strategic motives rather than humanitarian concerns. Israel’s occupation of the Golan Heights and the United States’ inconsistent alliances are presented as examples of geopolitical exploitation that have worsened the situation.
The internal dynamics of Syria are also scrutinized. Ilangamuwa highlights the rise of extremist factions such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the manipulation of local conflicts by various actors as evidence of deep-rooted chaos. He reflects on how the initial demands for justice and dignity have been overshadowed by a ruthless contest for power and dominance.
Through this comprehensive analysis, After Assad provides a sobering warning about Syria’s future. Ilangamuwa stresses the importance of rebuilding national institutions and limiting external interference to avoid the prolonged suffering seen in Libya. His book serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating human cost of unchecked geopolitical ambitions and the critical need for cooperative international efforts to support the recovery of war-torn nations.
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