Tri-national Meeting in Doha: Focus on Political Dialogue for Syria
On December 7, 2024, Iran, Türkiye, and Russia held discussions in Doha about Syria, focusing on initiating political dialogue amid rapid gains by anti-regime forces. The situation in Syria follows a recent counteroffensive by opposition groups, posing a threat to regional stability. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi emphasized the need for negotiations while Turkish President Erdoğan expressed hope for sustained military advances against government forces.
On December 7, 2024, the Foreign Ministers of Türkiye, Iran, and Russia convened in Doha, Qatar to address the escalating situation in Syria amidst recent advances by anti-regime forces. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov participated in discussions focusing on the imperative for political dialogue between the Syrian government and legitimate opposition groups. The meeting was framed within the ongoing Astana format discussions aimed at achieving a political resolution to the conflict, which has been protracted since 2011.
The dynamics in Syria have shifted dramatically following a counteroffensive launched by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied forces on November 27. Their rapid gains have reportedly included significant territories, raising concerns among regional actors. Minister Araghchi noted that this offensive presents a broader threat to the stability of the Middle East, emphasizing the potential risks to neighboring countries such as Iraq, Jordan, and Türkiye. While Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed hope for a continued advance by the anti-regime forces toward Damascus, the Syrian government has denied allegations of troop withdrawals around the capital.
Engaging with regional leaders, Minister Araghchi described the talks in Doha as “very frank and direct,” indicating a willingness among the involved parties to pursue diplomatic avenues for ending the conflict. Furthermore, Qatar, having previously supported opposition forces since the onset of the Syrian civil war, is now advocating for a negotiated resolution, signaling a shift in its approach towards the prolonged crisis. As the complex situation continues to evolve, the commitments made at the Doha Forum represent a critical juncture in the search for a peaceful solution in Syria.
The ongoing civil war in Syria has persisted since 2011, involving various local and international actors. The Astana format, initiated in 2017 by Türkiye, Iran, and Russia, seeks to mediate a political settlement in the conflict. Over the years, the situation has seen numerous shifts, with anti-regime forces fluctuating in power. Recently, rapid advances by opposition groups have transformed the military landscape, leading to renewed discussions among key stakeholders in the region. The implications of these developments extend beyond Syria, affecting neighboring countries and prompting a reassessment of foreign and regional policies.
In conclusion, the recent meeting in Doha among the foreign ministers of Türkiye, Iran, and Russia highlights the urgent need for a political dialogue in Syria amid significant changes on the ground. The swift advancements by anti-regime forces have prompted discussions of regional security concerns and the necessity for a negotiated settlement. As these key nations continue to engage, the potential for lasting peace in Syria remains precarious yet hopeful.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
