Life After Power for Bashar al-Assad

Syria’s former leader Bashar al-Assad escaped to Moscow after being ousted and appears to be adapting to a new chapter as a prominent ophthalmologist, especially now that his involvement with the Russian government has concluded.

Assad, who was educated at Damascus University and trained at an eye hospital in London, returned to power following the death of his father Hafez in 2000. His reign was marked by a brutal crackdown on dissent, particularly during the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011, when many predicted his downfall. Ironically, while Western observers noted the brutality of his regime contrasted sharply with his medical background, opposition figures in Syria were skeptical, believing he was doomed to fail.

Surprisingly, they were wrong. Assad responded to the threat with overwhelming force, leading to a devastating civil war that spanned over a decade, resulting in unimaginable humanitarian crises. Despite almost being defeated, his regime managed to persevere, largely thanks to significant support from Russia and Iran during critical moments.

By December 2024, as Russian and Iranian forces were drained by other conflicts, a coalition of jihadists and rebels swiftly took control of Damascus, prompting Assad and his family to flee to Moscow. A close associate later revealed that, a year later, Assad proclaimed he was “learning Russian and resuming his studies in ophthalmology,” suggesting a return to his earlier profession.

“It’s a passion for him, and honestly, he doesn’t need the money,” said a friend, alluding to Assad’s wealth amassed during his time in power. Before the conflict erupted, he often organized eye clinics in Damascus.

According to various reports, the Assad family is thought to reside in the upscale Rublevka area, a favored locale among Moscow’s elite. Life, however, seems to have become isolating for Assad; connections with former allies in Syria have dwindled, and he apparently holds little significance in the current Russian political landscape.

It appears that Russian President Vladimir Putin has little patience for leaders who lose their influence. Assad is reportedly no longer seen as a valuable or even an intriguing figure.

Upon leaving Syria, Assad allegedly took cash, leaving behind most of his administration, and made a hasty exit from his palace as rebel forces approached. Although he had intentions of rehabilitating his public image, plans for a media comeback were sidelined by the Kremlin, seemingly hoping he would fade from public attention.

In an interview, the Russian Ambassador to Iraq indicated that Assad is safe and alive, albeit in a state of obscurity. This has contributed to questions surrounding his influence and future moves, especially since some insiders suggested that Assad was coerced into relinquishing power under pressure from Russia.

Speculations regarding potential relocation plans for Assad to the United Arab Emirates have also surfaced. However, it appears that his notorious past as a dictator isn’t something the Emirates are willing to embrace.

Meanwhile, reports have surfaced that his family continues to enjoy extravagant lifestyles in Moscow, supported by their illicit wealth. In early December, allegations emerged of financial schemes involving Assad’s close allies to fund supporters back in Syria and contemplate a resurgence against the current government.

Two notable allies, Maj. Gen. Kamal Hassan and billionaire Rami Makhlouf, are reportedly strategizing to form a militia comprised of the Alawite community, aiming to reclaim power. While possessing resources and infrastructure from the Assad regime, they face obstacles, including internal rivalry that hampers their efforts.