The ongoing crisis in Syria shows no signs of abating after nearly 18 months of fighting. We appear to have reached an impasse, and a long and protracted civil war seems likely. The precise origins of the conflict remains unclear, however, and there is also uncertainty about the role of the international community and the UN, as well as the regional dynamics. Can we still consider this to be a battle between the civilian Syrian population and a despotic regime, in light of the fact that armed foreign fighters are now involved? Who is fighting and what are they fighting for: was it ever simply a battle for freedom and democracy? What effect have the actions or inaction of the international community had ? Is it time to intervene militarily, and if so, to what end? And what are the likely consequences?