Syria The civil war has now reached its turning point. While on one hand the government of President Bashar al-Assad has fallen, on the other hand the rebels against him have captured power. Al-Assad, who belongs to the Shia Islamic community, has now fled to Russia, but the story of his years in power is a deep and complex one. This conflict did not happen suddenly. There is a long history behind it, which is deeply rooted in religious, political and strategic reasons.
Al-Assad’s rise and history of conflict
The history of Syria is centuries old, but if we talk about the rule of al-Assad, it is the most important political change of the middle of the 21st century. Bashar al-Assad’s family belongs to the Shia Muslim Alawite community, while the majority of Syria’s population is Sunni Muslim. This religious division became the main reason for the Syrian civil war. The question arises that how did Bashar al-Assad remain in power for so many years while belonging to a minority Shia community? The answer is their tight control of power and the mobilization of support from the Shia community in the army.
Al-Assad always maintained tight control over the military and security agencies. The army was mostly composed of people from the Alawite community, which helped them remain in power. Along with this strategic support, countries like Russia and Iran always supported the al-Assad government. This cooperation was important for keeping Syria stable, as Iran and Russia increased their influence in Syria as part of their global strategic interests.
Shia-Sunni conflict in Syria
Religious divisions in Syria have deep roots. Disagreements between Shia and Sunni communities already existed, but this conflict increased during al-Assad’s rule. Shia Muslims believe that Imams were appointed by the Prophet Muhammad and that the position is hereditary, while Sunni Muslims believe that Imams are appointed by the community. Apart from this, there are also differences in the religious practices of the two communities, such as methods of offering namaz, customs of celebrating Moharram, etc.
When the civil war began in Syria, Sunni rebels launched a front against the al-Assad government. The al-Assad government resorted to heavy violence to crush these rebels. Along with this, Shia Muslims were supported by Iran, which further increased the dissatisfaction among Sunni Muslims. Sunni Muslims in Syria faced constant persecution due to Shia Muslims being in power, which further increased their anger.
Russia and Iran support
Russia’s and Iran’s active support in Syria proved vital. Russia, which has always been an important partner of Syria, kept al-Assad’s government afloat through military aid. In addition, Iran also provided its military help in support of the Shia community in Syria. This alliance of Russia and Iran was not only important in the Syrian civil war, but it was also having a deep impact on the politics of the Middle East.
Status of Shia Muslims in India
Now if we look at the situation of Shia Muslims in India, here too there are some glimpses of tension between Shia and Sunni Muslims. The number of Shia Muslims in India is about 20% and most of their population resides in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. Although Shia Muslims in India are known for peace and coexistence, differences still exist between the two communities.
There are religious and cultural differences between Shia and Sunni Muslims in India. Shia Muslims believe that the Imam was selected by the Prophet Muhammad and that the position is hereditary. Whereas Sunni Muslims believe that Imams are elected by the community. This religious difference has led to many conflicts between the two communities in India, although many people live peacefully with each other.
Shia Muslims in India have been neglected socially and economically many times, which has led to a feeling of dissatisfaction among them. However, several steps have been taken by the Government of India and other organizations to provide equal rights and opportunities to Shia Muslims.
Similarities and differences between Syria and India
There are some similarities between the tensions and conflicts that have taken place between Shia and Sunni communities in Syria and India, but the circumstances in these two countries are very different. In Syria this conflict had taken the form of a full-fledged civil war, whereas in India this conflict is relatively less and socially controlled. Despite efforts for peace between Shia and Sunni Muslims in India, the situation in Syria is completely different, where interference from abroad and religious conflict have complicated the situation.
Future of Syria and role of Shia Muslims in India
After the fall of President al-Assad’s regime in Syria, many questions are being raised regarding the future of the country. Now it remains to be seen whether peace will be restored in Syria or whether this conflict will escalate further. In India, the role of Shia Muslims can be important, because they have religious and cultural richness, which can help in establishing peace and harmony between the two communities.
The Syrian civil war and Shia-Sunni conflict has left a deep mark around the world. Now is the time for the world to learn from this conflict and move towards peace.
Disclaimer:The information provided in this article has been obtained from various online sources and aims to present a general perspective on the ongoing conflict in Syria, the Shia-Sunni dispute and the situation of Shia Muslims in India. As this article deals with sensitive religious topics, we request readers to independently verify the accuracy of the information. We do not claim complete accuracy, and if you find any information incorrect or misleading, please inform us. Our aim is to promote understanding and respect for all communities and faiths.
