Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Syria is undergoing a profound political transition under interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, with elections expected in 4-5 years, a dissolved constitution, and efforts to unify fragmented armed groups. Israel has stepped up airstrikes in southern Syria (Daraa, Suwayda, Damascus outskirts), insists on demilitarisation south of Damascus, and engages in direct and indirect talks with Damascus to manage emerging security threats and buffer zone control.