The opposition will prove unable to completely overturn the government . Violence across Syria began on March 15 , 2011 after Ali 's arrest for graffiti . Syria initially wanted peace ; now it wants regime out and democratic government . More than 100 people have been arrested , including many women and children . Analysts say President al - Assad is safe in short term but less so further ahead .
Violence across Syria began on March 15 , 2011 after Ali 's arrest for graffiti . Syria initially wanted peace ; now it wants regime out and democratic government . More than 100 people have been arrested , including many women and children . Analysts say President al - Assad is safe in short term but less so further ahead .