International Allies Confer in Paris on Syria’s Future Amid U.S. Aid Freeze
Western allies and Arab nations met in Paris to discuss Syria’s reconstruction amid a U.S. aid freeze following the fall of President Assad. The conference, the first under Trump, focused on urgent funding needs estimated at $250-$400 billion for rebuilding. Uncertainty surrounds U.S. military support and Syria’s governance under Ahmad al-Sharaa, as HTS emerges as a key player in the region.
Western allies and Arab countries convened in Paris to deliberate the future of Syria following the ousting of former President Bashar Assad, amidst an aid freeze from the U.S. This marks the third such international conference since Assad’s fall, and the first under President Donald Trump, whose decision to suspend foreign aid has raised significant concerns about Syria’s recovery.
The suspension of U.S. assistance has particularly impacted humanitarian efforts, as the country has struggled for nearly 14 years due to civil war. With a heavy reliance on aid, the need for reconstruction is acute, especially considering the United Nations’ estimation of $250 billion necessary for rebuilding, with some estimates now reaching $400 billion.
Key humanitarian services in previously rebel-held northwest Syria have been severely disrupted due to the aid freeze, resulting in the closure of clinics and job losses for nonprofit staff. This scenario has exacerbated the living conditions of millions of displaced individuals residing in makeshift camps, highlighting the urgent need for ongoing assistance.
Amidst uncertainty regarding U.S. military support, the future of American involvement in Syria remains unclear as the Biden administration reviews its policies. A U.S. representative attended the conference but did not present any definitive stance, reinforcing concerns about how the situation will unfold under Syria’s new leadership.
With the recent power consolidation by Ahmad al-Sharaa, Syria’s interim leader, there is no clear governance vision. Concurrently, the Islamic militant group HTS has positioned itself as a major authority, complicating the transitional landscape.
The conference’s main objectives focus on facilitating a peaceful transition, coordinating aid from regional partners, and addressing issues of accountability. The presence of Syria’s interim foreign minister at the conference underscores the new government’s commitment to rebuilding relationships with the West and lifting sanctions that hinder recovery efforts.
The Paris conference brings attention to the urgent need for international support to aid Syria’s recovery following a prolonged conflict. With significant funding required for reconstruction and the challenge of aligning assistance amidst U.S. aid suspensions, the path forward remains complicated. Coordination among allies and an effective strategy for governance in a post-Assad Syria are essential to secure lasting peace and stability.
Original Source: apnews.com
