What started as an anti-authoritarian uprising became a brutal international proxy war. However many years pass, the solution remains the same.
By Farrah Hassen, Foreign Policy in Focus
This week marks the 11th anniversary of the war in Syria.
As a Syrian American, it is difficult to acknowledge such a grim milestone without feeling a profound sense of anguish over the nearly 500,000 lives lost, the displacement of over 13 million people, and the destruction of its cultural relics.
I often wonder whether Syrians and Palestinian refugees I’ve met during my visits there are still safe. I cling on to my pre-war memories, like my euphoric first trip to Aleppo to discover my ancestral roots. I also still remember that tranquil day in 2004 when I basked in the splendor of the impressive Roman ruins at Palmyra, years before ISIL terrorists badly damaged the ancient city.

Despite such unrelenting tragedy, the Syrian people have remained resilient while confronting the challenges before them. Refugees have also adapted to their resettled homes and refugee camps throughout the Middle East. While the circumstances are hardly ideal, they are focused on rebuilding their lives and some have started their own businesses. This speaks to their inspiring grit and bravery, which rarely makes the news.
Recent Posts
‘A Huge Scandal’: Internal Doc Exposes Trump-Musk Hunt For Social Security Fraud As A Sham
May 16, 2025
Take Action Now A newly reported document shows that “anti-fraud checks” implemented at the Social Security agency found virtually no…
Israel Wants To Make Gaza Totally Uninhabitable
May 16, 2025
Take Action Now While airstrikes account for mass casualties, bulldozers and explosives are flattening Gaza from the ground — what soldiers say is a…
Hasan Piker, U.S. Citizen, On His Targeted Detention By CBP
May 16, 2025
Take Action Now Popular American streamer tells us about how he endured two hours of questioning regarding his opinions on Israel and Trump. …
Thousands Flee In Gaza City After Israel Issues Mass Displacement Orders And Vows To Attack ”With Great Force”
May 15, 2025
Take Action Now The scenes of mass displacement on Wednesday were like a slow-moving human flood flowing through destroyed streets.By Rasha Abou…