Foreign ministers from Türkiye, Iran, and Russia met in Doha to discuss escalating tensions in Syria amidst anti-regime offensives. They agree on initiating political dialogues to address the conflict, particularly in light of significant military gains by opposition forces. The meeting signals a shift in strategy as Qatar, initially supportive of opposition forces, now calls for negotiations to resolve the crisis. Iranian officials warn of regional implications from the ongoing violence, highlighting the interconnectedness of Middle Eastern nations in this conflict.
On December 7, 2024, the foreign ministers of Türkiye, Iran, and Russia convened in Doha, Qatar, to discuss the ongoing crisis in Syria. This meeting was particularly significant as it took place amidst a rapid offensive by anti-regime forces, which have captured portions of the country. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reported that discussions led to an agreement to foster “political dialogue between the Syrian government and the legitimate opposition groups.”
This trilateral dialogue stems from their engagement in the Astana process, initiated in 2017, which aims to negotiate a peaceful resolution to the Syrian conflict. However, the recent swift advances by opposition forces opposing President Bashar al-Assad, who is supported by Iran, have complicated the existing dynamics. A commander from the opposition indicated that they are nearing the goal of encircling Damascus, despite the Syrian defense ministry’s assertion that it has not withdrawn from its positions near the capital.
In anticipation of expanded discussions, Mr. Araghchi described his conversations with Turkish officials and Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, as “very frank and direct.” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has publicly called for reconciliation between Assad and the Syrian populace while expressing hopes that the progress of anti-regime forces continues unhindered.
Qatar has transitioned from being a supporter of opposition forces at the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011 to advocating for a negotiated settlement. This shift follows a resurgence of conflict, particularly after a counteroffensive initiated by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied groups on November 27, which has enabled them to capture significant urban areas, including Aleppo and Hama. Furthermore, the Syrian National Army has made gains against the YPG terrorist group near the Euphrates River. Araghchi recently warned that the ongoing offensive presents broader regional threats, stating that the ramifications will extend beyond Syria, impacting neighboring countries including Iraq, Jordan, and Türkiye.
The Syrian civil war has devastated the nation since 2011, leading to complex geopolitical dynamics involving numerous global and regional powers. Türkiye, Iran, and Russia have engaged in various negotiations and diplomatic efforts through the Astana Process, aimed at achieving a political resolution to the conflict. The current circumstances have evolved significantly due to military developments on the ground, propelled by the resurgence of anti-regime forces. As these developments unfold, the region remains highly sensitive to shifts in power dynamics and the humanitarian consequences of sustained violence.
The recent meeting in Doha underscores the urgent need for political dialogue in Syria as the situation escalates with advances from anti-regime forces. The trilateral engagement between Türkiye, Iran, and Russia seeks to address the ongoing conflict while recognizing the broader implications for regional stability. As the Syrian crisis continues, the international community watches closely, underscoring the importance of diplomatic channels in efforts to achieve lasting peace.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
