Syria's former president Bashar al-Assad is portrayed by insiders as a leader consumed by personal indulgences and palace intrigue, rather than the crises facing his collapsing regime. Reports suggest Assad was fixated on sexual affairs, facilitated by his adviser and alleged lover Luna al-Shibl, who later died under mysterious circumstances amid accusations of espionage and betrayal. As Syria descended into chaos, Assad grew increasingly detached, spending hours playing smartphone games while sidelining experienced officials and ignoring urgent calls from foreign leaders. When his regime finally fell to a rebel offensive in December 2024, Assad fled Damascus under cover of night, leaving loyalists behind as the state unraveled overnight.

Now living in luxury in Moscow with his family, Assad reportedly spends his days in opulent isolation, shielded by Russian security and largely cut off from the outside world. The former ruler, once feared as a ruthless dictator, is said to have little contact with anyone beyond a few close associates, while his wife Asma battles cancer. The story of Assad's downfall is marked by decadence, denial, and a dramatic escape, with the truth behind key events still shrouded in secrecy.