A few weeks ago, regional and international geopolitical efforts have also caused the sudden collapse of the secular Syrian government. Longstanding western sanctions against Syria and confiscation of its natural and financial resources severely weakened the government and impoverished most of the population. Strong external economic, military and logistical support readied Islamic Jihadists to take advantage of the situation. Although relatively small in numbers, Islamist groups previously affiliated with Al-Qaeda and ISIS and still listed internationally as terrorists, quickly swept through Syria from northern and southern neighbouring countries. Shockingly, weary secular Syrian government armed forces and security personnel, weakened and demoralized, showed no serious resistance. Evidently, bribed top generals gave orders to walk away or surrender. Those who resisted were shot dead on the spot.
