In this fully revised second edition of his acclaimed text, Samer Abboud provides an in-depth analysis of Syria's descent into civil war, the subsequent stalemate, and the consequences of Russian military involvement after 2015.

The rise and fall of the Ba'ath Party -- The Syrian uprising -- Continued violence and the emergence of armed opposition -- Before Aleppo : stalemate and fragmentation -- After Aleppo: breaking the stalemate -- Conclusion : the coming authoritarian peace.