Syria has become divided between conflicting forces into spheres of influence.
The illusion of a knockout-blow is over. The goal of Syrian government forces decisively restoring control over the entire country is nothing but a phantom, and the idea that the regime and all its symbols and foundations are collapsing is nothing but an illusion. As of right now, the regime is not able to implement a political-military solution that can return it to governing the country and its subjects. Additionally, the current political solution includes the formation of a transitional governing body with complete executive authority over Syria. It appears this dream has no connection to the geography and demographics in Syria.
In the dictionary of bitter political realism, the belief that it is possible to return to 2011 or before 2011 or to the 1980s appears next to the illusion that the regime is finished. No “the revolution triumphed” and no “regime decisiveness.” Syria as we know it is the only one who was defeated. The Syrian people are oppressed and torn in two, inside the country and outside of it.
To one who knows Syrians, both pro-government and opposition, these facts are difficult to acknowledge. The truth is bitter and painful. So the regime talks about “sovereignty,” a booming tourism season, and “victory over terrorism and Takfiris,” and the opposition talks about “occupation” and the necessity of a “political transition.” But state-sponsors and allies of Syrian parties are the boldest in pursuing their interests.