The political landscape in Syria is undergoing a significant transformation following the fall of the Assad regime and the rise of a new leadership under Ahmed al-Sharaa. This transition has sparked a flurry of diplomatic activity, with regional and international actors engaging with the new administration, signaling a potential shift in the geopolitical dynamics of the region. Qatar, a long-time supporter of the Syrian opposition, has taken a prominent role, reopening its embassy in Damascus after 13 years and sending its foreign ministry official, Mohammed al-Khulaifi, for talks with al-Sharaa. This move, characterized by Qatar as a symbol of continued support for the Syrian people, marks a significant step towards normalizing relations. Turkey, another key backer of the opposition, has also engaged with the new leadership, with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan meeting with al-Sharaa, further underscoring the evolving regional approach towards Syria.
Al-Sharaa’s diplomatic engagements extend beyond these traditional allies. He has held meetings with a diverse array of stakeholders, including Druze leaders from both Lebanon and Syria, Syrian opposition media and activists, Damascus businessmen, and leaders of military groups instrumental in the regime change. These interactions highlight the new leadership’s efforts to build bridges and foster dialogue across the fragmented Syrian political spectrum. Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi also held talks with al-Sharaa, reflecting the interconnectedness of the two countries and the potential implications of Syria’s transition for Jordan’s stability and security, especially concerning issues like the flow of refugees and the illicit drug trade.
The diplomatic outreach extends beyond immediate neighbours. Reports suggest that Jordan’s engagement with al-Sharaa might also represent the interests of other Arab nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Algeria, and Iraq, which have historically maintained ties with the Assad regime. These countries have publicly expressed support for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing their desire to contribute to stability and alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people. However, this apparent shift in stance has been met with cautious optimism, with many Syrians expressing concerns about the potential influence and motives of these nations in the reshaping of Syria’s future. The widespread skepticism, especially on social media, underlines the complex and sensitive nature of the transition and the deep-seated mistrust that remains.
The new Syrian leadership also appears to be prioritizing internal reconciliation and inclusive governance. A notable development is the reported meeting between al-Sharaa and Farouk al-Sharaa, the former vice president under Bashar al-Assad, who has been largely absent from the political scene in recent years. This outreach suggests an effort to engage with figures from the previous regime, potentially paving the way for a more inclusive political process. The planned national dialogue conference in Damascus further underscores this commitment to fostering dialogue and building consensus among different Syrian factions. This move towards inclusivity, if genuinely pursued, could be crucial for long-term stability and reconciliation.
Jordan’s involvement in the Syrian transition is particularly significant due to the countries’ shared border and the multifaceted impact of Syria’s instability on Jordan. The new Syrian leadership’s commitment to curbing the smuggling of Captagon, a highly addictive amphetamine-type stimulant, through Jordan is a crucial development for the latter. This illicit trade has posed significant security and social challenges for Jordan, and its cessation could be a major positive outcome of the change in Syria. Furthermore, stability in Syria could facilitate the return of the approximately 730,000 Syrian refugees currently residing in Jordan, relieving the significant strain on the country’s resources and infrastructure.
The evolving situation in Syria presents both opportunities and challenges for the region. The active engagement of regional and international actors signals a willingness to work with the new leadership, potentially ushering in a period of greater stability and cooperation. However, the complex web of interests at play, coupled with the deep scars of the past, underscores the fragility of the current transition. The success of Syria’s new chapter will depend on the new leadership’s ability to genuinely embrace inclusivity, address the concerns of a wary populace, and foster meaningful cooperation with its neighbours and the international community. The road ahead remains uncertain, but the current diplomatic momentum offers a glimmer of hope for a more peaceful and stable future for Syria and the region.
