"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"?