Syria’s New Leadership Seeks to Rebuild Ties with the West Amidst Lingering Tensions with Russia and Iran
Syria’s new interim foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, has made a historic appearance at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, signaling a significant shift in the war-torn nation’s diplomatic approach. Al-Shibani, representing a government formed after the ousting of President Bashar Assad in December, emphasized Syria’s desire to rebuild its international relationships, particularly with Western nations. He acknowledged the "positive" signals from Russia and Iran, though he refrained from elaborating on what these signals entailed. However, he made it clear that Syria’s primary focus lies in mending ties with the West and securing the removal of crippling sanctions to pave the way for post-war reconstruction. "Syria has recovered its freedom and dignity," al-Shibani declared, marking the end of decades of authoritarian rule. "It’s a new period of peace and peacebuilding."
This newfound optimism, however, is tempered by the deep-seated animosity many Syrians harbor toward Russia and Iran, both of which supported Assad’s regime during the brutal 14-year civil war. Al-Shibani did not shy away from addressing these wounds, stating that the Syrian people bore "pain and suffering" at the hands of these two nations. He emphasized that any restoration of relations would require the Syrian people to "feel comfortable" with such a partnership. This statement underscores the delicate balancing act the new government must perform as it seeks to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape.
The Weight of Sanctions and the Urgent Need for Rebuilding
One of the most pressing issues on Syria’s agenda is the removal of sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union. These sanctions, which were levied against the Assad regime for its repression and human rights abuses, continue to suffocate the Syrian economy. Al-Shibani argued that lifting these sanctions is not only justified but necessary, given the regime’s ousting. "It’s only natural to lift them now," he said, highlighting the urgent need for economic relief.
The scale of Syria’s reconstruction effort is staggering. Estimates suggest that rebuilding the nation will cost at least $250 billion, a figure that underscores the sheer devastation wrought by the war. Today, Syria’s poverty rate stands at an alarming 90%, and its gross domestic product is less than half of what it was before the conflict began. The sanctions, while initially intended to punish the Assad regime, now hinder the country’s ability to recover and rebuild. Al-Shibani’s appeal for their removal is a direct attempt to unlock the international aid and investment necessary to revive Syria’s economy and restore hope to its people.
The Road to Rebuilding and the Role of the International Community
Al-Shibani’s presence at the Dubai summit is a testament to the new government’s determination to engage with the global community. His address reflected a clear strategy to distance Syria from its former allies, Russia and Iran, while seeking to court Western nations and regional powers like the United Arab Emirates. The UAE, which reopened its embassy in Damascus in 2018, has been a key player in efforts to reintegrate Syria into the Arab fold. Assad’s 2022 visit to the UAE, where he met with Emirati leaders, was a significant step in this process.
However, the path to rebuilding Syria’s international relations is fraught with challenges. The new government’s ties to militant groups, including the former al-Qaida affiliate Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, raise concerns among Western nations. Al-Shibani, who once fought alongside such groups, has sought to reassure the international community of the government’s commitment to stability and security. He claimed that the interim government has "ended all security and Captagon-related challenges" that had strained ties with neighboring Jordan. Captagon, a lucrative amphetamine-like stimulant, was once a key source of revenue for the Assad regime, but its production and trade have now been curtailed.
Regional Dynamics and the Enduring Influence of Russia and Iran
Despite the new government’s efforts to pivot toward the West, Russia and Iran remain deeply entrenched in Syria. Russia’s strategic interests in the Mediterranean are secured through its air and sea bases in the country, while Iran continues to use Syria as a transit point for arming its allies, such as Lebanon’s Hezbollah militia. These ties are unlikely to be severed easily, as both nations have invested heavily in maintaining influence over Syria.
The ousting of Assad in December marked a dramatic turning point in Syria’s history, with the former president fleeing to Russia, where he has been granted sanctuary by Vladimir Putin. This move has further strained relations between Syria and its former backers. Al-Shibani’s remarks at the summit hinted at the lingering resentment toward Russia and Iran, emphasizing that any future relationship would need to be rebuilt on the basis of mutual trust and respect.
The Long and Winding Road to Recovery
As Syria embarks on this new chapter, the challenges ahead are immense. The interim government, set to transition to a new administration on March 1, faces not only external skepticism but also internal divisions. The legacy of the civil war, including the presence of extremist groups and the scars of widespread human rights abuses, will take years to heal.
Yet, there is a glimmer of hope. Al-Shibani’s address in Dubai, along with his earlier appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, signals a new era of openness and engagement. His biography, which includes his participation in the 2011 Arab Spring protests and his subsequent role as a rebel leader, adds a layer of authenticity to his message. Syrians, who have endured unimaginable suffering, may finally have a chance to rebuild their nation and reclaim their future.
The road ahead will be long and arduous, but the new government’s willingness to engage with the international community and address the root causes of Syria’s turmoil offers a rare opportunity for renewal. Whether this vision of peace and reconstruction can be realized will depend on the combined efforts of Syrians, their regional neighbors, and the global community.
