In spite of these failings, Assad's benevolent underdog image proved to be remarkably resilient, as most Western observers assumed that a cabal of aging hardliners within the regime was obstructing his authority. The so-called "old guard" theory was flatly contradicted by the readily observable monopolization of political and economic power within Assad's inner circle during the past five years, but it dovetailed neatly with his habitual claims to be unaware of or powerless to prevent wrongdoing that draws Western criticism. For a time, misperceptions permitted all manners of sin for Syria's young ruler.

"Shara's appointment, the biggest change in the reshuffle, indicates an obvious change in Syria's foreign policy," political analyst Imad Sara told Xinhua.
...
"The [ministerial] reshuffle shows Assad's resolve to isolate the old guards who impede his reform efforts both in the political and economic process," analyst Sara said.