Can Ahmad al-Sharaa Lead Syria Towards Stability After Assad’s Regime?
Ahmad al-Sharaa, Syria’s new interim president, must navigate complex foreign interests and internal challenges after the fall of Bashar Assad. Turkey and Gulf States seek stability to prevent chaos, while Iran and Russia’s influence wanes. Al-Sharaa faces significant hurdles, including sanctions and armed opposition, as he works towards stabilizing Syria and fostering its economic recovery.
Syria faces a pivotal moment after the fall of the Assad regime. Interim leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, previously a militia leader, is now attempting to stabilize the nation amidst complex foreign interests. Once viewed as a terrorist leader, al-Sharaa today receives a warm welcome from Middle Eastern nations as Syria’s interim president, having replaced Assad’s rule in December.
Al-Sharaa must navigate the geopolitical landscape, where countries including Turkey, the Gulf States, and Iran hold significant influence. After two decades of foreign interference that reduced Syria to a pawn, the potential for renewed conflict exists, although regional powers currently favor stability to avoid further chaos.
Turkey is a key player in Syria’s stabilization, offering support to al-Sharaa, who reportedly promised military bases to Ankara. The Syrian National Army, backed by Turkey, has initiated operations against Kurdish forces, indicating a shift in the regional power dynamics after Assad’s regime.
Meanwhile, Gulf States, particularly Saudi Arabia, are poised to rebuild Syria’s economy. Efforts to unite Turkey and Saudi Arabia after years of rivalry may facilitate necessary investments in Syria to foster recovery as they share a vested interest in regional stability, aiming to curb the expansion of Iranian influence.
Iran, however, faces challenges as al-Sharaa’s rise diminishes its foothold. Although Tehran publicly claims to accept the new leadership, it remains concerned about losing its influence over Syria. Russian support is also dwindling, as they adjust to the new leadership dynamics post-Assad.
Al-Sharaa’s administration contends with Western sanctions and ongoing Israeli military presence, which complicate governance. While the EU appears open to easing sanctions, the political landscape remains volatile, particularly with U.S. forces deployed in eastern Syria, which may influence al-Sharaa’s future trajectory.
Internally, al-Sharaa’s control is tested by various armed groups and the historical loyalty of the Alawite community, which may not fully accept his leadership. He must also address the discontent among former jihadists and remnants of ISIS in the region, posing continued risks to Syria’s stability.
Al-Sharaa’s success could stabilize not only Syria but the broader Middle Eastern region. Nevertheless, Syria has a long history of political instability and short-lived leadership, making the path forward complex and uncertain, especially following decades of Assad’s dominance in governance.
Ahmad al-Sharaa’s ascendance to Syria’s interim presidency presents both challenges and opportunities. He must unify various factions, manage foreign interests, and navigate internal dissent while seeking international investment to reconstruct the economy. The historical context of Syrian governance raises questions about his long-term success in this fragmented context, with regional stability hanging in the balance.
Original Source: www.nzz.ch
