He is just another dictator. However, dictators only become dictators if their throne is threatened to be taken away from them and their kids. (UK, All Gulf states, Most middle eastern countries, etc)

I personally believe in non-hereditary titles, but who am I anyway to judge!

I think Assad was harmless or at least less harmful than Iran president for instance, but U.S & Israel use an effective strategy in this region. (Make neighboring countries enemies & conduct business with them) - Arabs/Muslims are not very smart to unite because if they do, most Americans will be riding tricycles to work.