The Economist wants the West to help Syrian rebels with weapons, please

"The rebels desperately need to start getting serious military support from the West in the form of precision modern weapons, such as portable anti-aircraft missiles and anti-tank guided weapons. Even they may not be enough unless accompanied by a no-fly zone in the north, where they could draw breath, gather strength and forge themselves into a more effective force with the help of Western military trainers. In their absence, Mr Assad, once widely deemed to be doomed, could survive for quite a time yet."  Wait. I am confused.  A year ago I was told that Asad was about to leave office "next week"?