Qatar to establish political dialogue with Syrian Opposition Actions

Qatar has voiced its backing for recent developments in Syria and Gaza, following the Syrian opposition’s takeover of significant government-held areas amid the decline of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, all while Gaza endures ongoing violence from Israel. “The sacrifices endured by the Syrian people over the past decade deserve global acknowledgment and support for their national cause,” stated Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during a panel at the Doha Forum 2024 on ‘The Future of US Strategy in the Middle East Following the 2024 Election’ on Monday. 

Al Ansari commended the Syrian opposition for their recent initiatives aimed at ensuring civilian safety, fostering institutional stability, and maintaining public services, describing these efforts as potential pivotal steps toward securing freedom, justice, and peace for the Syrian populace.

Furthermore, Al Ansari called for adherence to international humanitarian law and a peaceful political transition, which he believes could enhance regional stability. He reiterated Qatar’s dedication to collaborating with Arab and global partners in supporting Syria’s path towards a secure and stable future. 

On a significant note, rebel forces reclaimed entry into Damascus on Saturday for the first time since 2018, achieving a rapid advance that saw them capture critical sites, including the international airport and the headquarters of state television, without encountering resistance. Reports suggest government forces withdrew, facilitating an unhindered takeover by the rebels. Meanwhile, ousted President Bashar al-Assad reportedly fled to Moscow with his family, as reported by Russian state media, which confirmed their arrival and quoted a Kremlin official stating that Assad was granted asylum “on humanitarian grounds.”

Assad’s exit followed his resignation with directions for a peaceful power transfer, as outlined by the Russian Foreign Ministry. Russia, a long-time ally of Assad, provided military backing throughout Syria’s civil war, encompassing a nine-year air assault that claimed thousands of civilian lives, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). Russian officials reportedly maintain communication with leaders of the armed Syrian opposition, who have assured the safety of Russian military installations and diplomatic entities within Syria, as per TASS.

A senior Russian official associated with the UN mentioned on Telegram Sunday that Moscow has called for an urgent United Nations Security Council meeting to discuss the evolving situation and its extensive implications for both Syria and the region. The regime’s collapse signifies a critical juncture in Syria’s protracted conflict, with the opposition now in control of Damascus, despite ongoing uncertainty regarding the future of the nation, which draws the attention of international stakeholders.

Qatar’s Mediation Initiatives in Gaza

In the same panel discussion, Al Ansari addressed the situation in Gaza and Qatar’s role in mediation. He indicated that despite achieving an acceptable ceasefire framework, political exploitation of the situation compelled Qatar to halt its mediation efforts. “Qatar does not wish to be utilized as an instrument in this conflict,” he clarified, while continuing to assess its mediation strategy and stressing the necessity for international pressure on the conflicting parties.

Al Ansari conveyed optimism regarding the incoming US administration under President-elect Donald Trump, advocating for enhanced collaboration to tackle regional challenges. “Dialogue and meaningful discussions between the United States and regional nations are crucial for achieving peace and stability worldwide,” he remarked.

He highlighted the broader ramifications of ongoing wars, particularly the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the international community has yet to offer sufficient solutions. He emphasized that the persistence of these conflicts impacts future generations, indicating a growing distrust among the populace towards both governments and the international community, especially in light of the nearly 50,000 lives lost in the Gaza Strip thus far due to the inaction of the global community. “While reaching a consensus on all aspects of the Palestinian issue or any other topic may be challenging, we must universally agree to halt the bloodshed immediately,” he stated.

Participants in the panel, including regional experts and diplomats, lauded Qatar’s mediation and conflict resolution efforts, stressing the catastrophic toll of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and the urgent need for U.S. intervention to facilitate peace. They called for a cohesive strategy to address the challenges in the Middle East and foster dialogue to prevent further escalation.