Because Assad is a CAUSE of suffering. He is a terrorist that spends millions trying to kill maim and destroy those he counts as enemies (even though the majority of the ones killed are usually considered innocents in a time of war). He wants the destruction of God's people, Israel. He doesn't allow full freedom in his country. And he is a tool of Satan. Need anything else, or can I just assume that when the time comes you will jump in line to take the mark of the beast because, Gee, that guy just wants to alleviate everyone's suffering.
One of many. So is George W. Bush.
He wants the destruction of God's people, Israel.
Israel is not "God's People" - that is the Church (see 1Pe. 2:9, Mt. 21:33-46, Luk. 3:8-9). (Yeah; I believe in supracessionism. The Church always has. So what?)