What is Bashar al-Assad’s regime?

Bashar al-Assad’s regime is like a team that runs a big school and makes sure everyone follows the rules, but sometimes they do it in a strict or even unfair way.

Imagine you're at a school where the teacher, Mr. Assad, has been in charge for a long time. He has his team of helpers, some are like other teachers, some are like bullies who make sure no one breaks the rules. Together, they decide what happens every day, who gets to play, who gets punished, and who stays in class.

• Bashar al-Assad is the main leader, like a boss or head teacher.
• His team includes other leaders, soldiers, and people who help him stay in charge.
• They use rules, sometimes strict ones, to keep control of the school, and they don’t always let everyone have a say.

Sometimes students or teachers disagree with the rules, and that’s when things get messy, like if someone starts a big argument or even a fight. But Mr. Assad and his team try their best to stay in charge and keep everything running smoothly.