Türkiye, Iran, and Russia Collaborate on Syrian Political Dialogue in Doha

The foreign ministers of Türkiye, Iran, and Russia convened in Doha to discuss the escalating situation in Syria, where anti-regime forces have gained ground. They agreed on the necessity of political dialogue between the Syrian government and legitimate opposition. Concerns were raised regarding the threat of instability in the region, with implications for neighboring countries as a result of recent developments in the conflict.

On December 7, 2024, the foreign ministers of Türkiye, Iran, and Russia convened in Doha, Qatar, to discuss the evolving situation in Syria amidst recent gains by anti-regime forces. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov sought to foster political dialogue between the Syrian government and legitimate opposition groups. This trilateral engagement stems from a collaboration initiated in 2017 under the Astana format aimed at achieving a political resolution in Syria.

The context of these discussions was significantly altered following a counteroffensive launched on November 27 by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied opposition factions that resulted in swift territorial gains, including strategic locations such as Aleppo and Hama. Araghchi voiced concerns about the implications of the ongoing conflict, indicating that the instability in Syria posed threats beyond its borders, affecting neighboring countries like Iraq, Jordan, and Türkiye.

As the discussions progressed, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed hope for continued momentum against the Assad regime, which has faced increased challenges due to the anti-regime forces’ advances toward Damascus. Meanwhile, Qatar’s perspective evolved from supporting opposition forces at the civil war’s outset in 2011 to advocating for a negotiated resolution, reflecting the complex landscape of alliances and enmities in the region.

The conflict in Syria, which began in 2011, has seen multiple foreign powers engaging in the geopolitical fray, each with distinct interests. Türkiye, Iran, and Russia have been crucial players in the peace talks aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis. In the Astana format established in 2017, these nations have worked alternately towards fostering dialogue between the Syrian government and various opposition factions. Recently, a surge in activity from anti-regime groups, particularly HTS, has shifted the dynamics of the conflict, prompting renewed diplomatic efforts in response to alarming developments on the ground.

The recent meeting in Doha highlights the urgent need for concerted diplomatic efforts regarding Syria amidst escalating tensions and territorial gains by anti-regime forces. The foreign ministers’ call for political dialogue underscores a broader recognition of the complex interdependencies in the region, particularly regarding security threats that extend beyond Syria’s borders. As global stakeholders reconsider their positions, the path to a sustainable resolution remains challenged by ongoing hostilities and the evolving landscape of alliances.

Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com