On December 8, President Joe Biden affirmed that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad must be held accountable for the atrocities committed against innocent Syrians. Speaking from the White House, he described Assad’s potential downfall as a ‘historic opportunity’ for Syrians to build a better future, despite the risks and uncertainties involved. Biden also cautioned that certain rebel groups involved in the offensive against Assad have connections to terrorism and human rights violations, stating that the U.S. will closely monitor their actions as they take on greater responsibilities.