Bashar al-Assad is the President of Syria, having taken office in July 2000 after the death of his father, Hafez al-Assad, who ruled the country for 29 years. Trained as an ophthalmologist, Bashar initially had no intention of entering politics but was thrust into leadership following his brother's death. Assad's presidency has been marked by significant controversy, particularly due to the ongoing Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011. His government has faced accusations of human rights violations and the use of chemical weapons against civilians, leading to widespread international condemnation and sanctions.