Aqaba Meetings Reinforce Support for Syrian Unity
The recent "Arab International Meetings in Aqaba to Discuss the Future of Syria" concluded in Jordan, emphasizing the critical need for Arab coordination to uphold the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of Syrian territory. The meetings, held under the auspices of Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, brought together Arab, international, and regional officials to address the evolving political landscape in Syria following the fall of the Assad regime on December 8, 2024. The final statement from the meetings underscored the rejection of any attempts to divide Syria and highlighted the importance of preserving civil peace within the country.
Key Outcomes and Future Directions
The Aqaba meetings resulted in a call for swift action from Arab nations to stabilize Syria and prevent further chaos. Dr. Khaled Al-Shanikat, head of the Jordanian Political Science Association, noted that the meetings established clear criteria for a peaceful transition of power, advocating for a new Syrian government that represents all societal segments and supports political pluralism. The discussions also focused on ensuring security across Syrian territories, paving the way for inclusive democratic elections, and limiting foreign interference in Syria's internal affairs.
Strategic and military expert Major General Mahmoud Ardisat highlighted the meetings' timing as crucial, warning against potential Israeli exploitation of the political transition to expand territorial control. He emphasized that the meetings aimed to solidify a unified Arab stance on Syria, which is essential given the complex international and regional dynamics at play.
Arab Rapprochement and International Oversight
Political analyst Hazem Ayyad remarked that the Aqaba meetings signal a potential Arab rapprochement with Syria, aimed at rebuilding state institutions and maintaining territorial unity. The final statement reiterated the commitment to support the Syrian people and called for an end to military operations, ensuring justice and equality for all citizens regardless of their background. It also condemned Israeli incursions into Syrian territory, labeling them as violations of international law and calling for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied areas, particularly the Golan Heights.
The meetings, attended by representatives from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar, alongside the Secretary-General of the Arab League, mark a significant step towards establishing a collaborative framework for Syria's political future. The emphasis on international oversight for the transition process aligns with Security Council Resolution 2254, aiming to facilitate a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.
