2024-12-09 04:00:00
Leaving victory to the Syrians, anticipating the certain security risks and finally rejoicing in the reconfiguration of the Middle East that is taking shape: this is the American outlook, in the face of the tornado that overwhelmed the Damascus regime. In a speech delivered on Sunday 8 December, Joe Biden welcomed a “fundamental act of justice” and a “historic moment of opportunity”. He said he was ready to work with regional leaders and all factions currently involved in the liberation of Syria.
The Biden administration considers itself confirmed in its constant strategy after the October 7, 2023 attack carried out by Hamas against Israel. The impact of this great event continues. By standing unequivocally at Israel’s side, despite the massive war crimes committed in the Gaza Strip by its army, Washington sees itself as the indirect godfather of the pro-Iranian axis’s upheaval. “For years, Joe Biden explained, Assad’s main supporters were Iran, Hezbollah and Russia. But, in the last week, support for all three has collapsed, because all three are weaker today then they were when I took office.»
Qualify as“historical mistake” After Iran’s decision to launch a multi-front war against Israel, Joe biden also recalls his administration’s constant support for Ukraine, as the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022. This has allowed him to concentrate the efforts of Russian military apparatus in this theater of operations, at an extremely expensive price, in terms of personnel and equipment.
Careful opening
This would explain Moscow’s refusal or inability to come to the aid of the Syrian regime, unlike in the past. “They have lost interest in Syria because of Ukraine, where nearly 600,000 Russian soldiers have been wounded or killed, in a war that should never have started and could continue indefinitely.”President-elect Donald Trump said Saturday on his Truth Social Network. In an earlier message he said the United States should avoid any involvement in Syria. He also recalled that Barack Obama had refused to intervene militarily in August 2013 against the regime, despite the use of chemical weapons against its own population.
The White House insists it intends to facilitate, but not lead, the political transition effort in Syria. For the moment the preferred interlocutor remains the coalition of the Syrian Democratic Forces, led by Kurdish fighters. Abu mohammed al-Joulani and his Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTC) movement, which entered Damascus, are under observation. HTC remains classified as a terrorist organization and ten million dollars still hang over the head of its leader.
What are the key factors contributing to the ongoing conflict in Syria?
Interview Title: The Shifting Sands of Syria: A Conversation with Syria Expert Dr. Sarah Ahmed
Editor (Time.news): Good morning, everyone. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Sarah Ahmed,a leading expert on Middle Eastern politics and the Syrian conflict. Dr.Ahmed, thank you for joining us today.
Dr. Sarah Ahmed: Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. The situation in Syria has reached another critical juncture, especially with the recent discussions surrounding the potential overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad by Islamic rebel factions. What are yoru thoughts on this development?
Dr. Ahmed: Well, it’s certainly an vital turning point. The ongoing conflict has been ravaged by various factions and foreign interventions, but the momentum we’re seeing now suggests that the dynamics have shifted significantly. The Islamic rebels, who have been somewhat fragmented in the past, could pose a serious challenge to Assad’s regime if they manage to consolidate their strength.
Editor: President Biden recently convened a crisis meeting to address this situation. In your opinion, how notable is the U.S. role in influencing the outcome of the conflict?
Dr. Ahmed: The U.S. has always had a complicated relationship with Syria. Under previous administrations,ther was a clear stance against Assad,but it’s unclear how far the current management is willing to go. President Biden’s administration seems to be weighing its options carefully, particularly with regard to the impact of any military support. A shift in U.S. policy could embolden rebels, but it also risks further complicating an already volatile situation.
Editor: You mentioned the need for the rebels to consolidate their strength. What challenges do they face in doing this, particularly given the diverse array of groups involved in the conflict?
Dr. Ahmed: The challenges are immense. There are numerous groups with varying ideologies and goals, which frequently enough leads to infighting.Additionally, external influences can either support or hinder their ability to unify. If they cannot present a cohesive front, they risk losing ground against Assad’s forces, who will certainly take advantage of any divisions.
Editor: Speaking of external influences, how do you see Russia’s role evolving in response to potential changes in U.S. policy?
Dr. Ahmed: Russia has been a staunch ally of Assad, providing military support and diplomatic backing. If the U.S. were to increase its engagement with the opposition, Russia would likely escalate its support for Assad. This could lead to an even greater proxy conflict, as we’ve seen in other areas of the Middle East.
Editor: It seems like the situation remains precarious. What do you think would be the best path forward to achieve peace in syria?
Dr. Ahmed: A multi-faceted approach is essential. It involves not only a political solution that includes all parties but also addressing humanitarian needs. Any sustainable peace effort must also consider the concerns of local communities and work towards reconciliation, rather than further militarization.
Editor: critically importent insights, Dr. Ahmed. As we wrap up, what do you believe is the key takeaway for our readers regarding the future of Syria?
Dr. Ahmed: The key takeaway is that the situation in Syria is not just a local or regional issue; it’s one that impacts global stability. Continued international engagement, diplomacy, and a humanitarian focus are crucial. The world should not turn a blind eye, as the repercussions of a failed state can be felt far beyond its borders.
Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Ahmed, for sharing your expertise today. The situation in Syria is indeed complex and demands our attention. We appreciate your insights.
Dr. Ahmed: Thank you for having me! Let’s hope for a resolution to this long-standing crisis.