Dear readers, we are once again turning our attention to Syria. Turkey has made a critical call to end the bloody war that has been going on for over a decade. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced that a compromise must be reached between the Bashar al-Assad regime and opposition forces. However, how realistic is this call considering the complex balances in the region?
What is happening?
Turkey’s proposal:
Turkey supports direct dialogue between the parties and is ready to mediate on this issue. The aim is to find a permanent solution to the conflicts in the region.
The situation on the ground:
The opposition forces have made significant territorial gains in Hama and Aleppo under the leadership of the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
The Assad regime, on the other hand, is trying to push back this progress with Iranian-backed militia forces. The intensity of the conflicts is increasing day by day.
Obstacles:
The Assad regime wants Turkey to end its military presence in northern Syria. However, Turkey argues that Kurdish groups in the region pose a threat. There are deep gaps between the demands of the two sides.
Why is it important?
This call is of critical importance not only for Syria, but for the entire region. If peace is achieved:
Turkey: Can ease the refugee crisis and increase border security.
Assad: Can gain international legitimacy, but will have to make concessions for this.
Region: A new balance can be established by considering the conflicting interests of Iran, Russia and the US.
However, let’s not forget that all parties need to make major concessions for this call to succeed.
Conclusion:
Dear readers, this move by Turkey is an important initiative for the resolution of long-standing conflicts in the region. However, establishing a table between the Assad regime and the opposition is an easy goal to say but difficult to achieve. Can a balance be established between diplomacy and the balances in the region? Time will tell.
We will continue to monitor the region. The fate of Syria is also the fate of the Middle East. We will continue to share developments with you.
