World News Syria's ousted dictator relied on a brutal army, and powerful allies. What changed? 5:17am December 18, 2024 by Leila Fadel Share URL copied to clipboard! Play Pause There was an error loading the media player. 300x250 Ad More Morning Edition Music & Culture John Ondrasik rewrites his song 'Superman' to remember Israeli hostages held in Gaza Economy National Why Fed independence matters, according to economist Jason Furman by Steve Inskeep 300x250 Ad Support quality journalism, like the story above, with your gift right now. Donate