Türkiye, Iran, and Russia Convene in Doha to Address Syrian Crisis

Top diplomats from Türkiye, Iran, and Russia met in Doha to discuss the escalating Syrian conflict. They agreed on initiating political dialogue between the Syrian government and the opposition amid significant territorial gains by anti-regime forces. The discussions are part of ongoing efforts toward a political settlement under the Astana format since 2017. The evolving situation raises concerns regarding regional stability and implications for neighboring countries.

On December 7, 2024, top diplomats from Türkiye, Iran, and Russia convened in Doha, Qatar, to deliberate on the escalating situation in Syria. The discussions followed significant territorial gains by anti-regime forces opposing the Iran-aligned President Bashar al-Assad. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that the parties agreed to commence “political dialogue between the Syrian government and the legitimate opposition groups.” These nations have been negotiating a political resolution since initiating the Astana format talks in 2017, addressing the ongoing crisis in Syria that has seen a dramatic shift in control amid recent offensives.

The meeting’s outcomes were overshadowed by reports of anti-regime forces encircling Damascus, although the Syrian defense ministry refuted claims of military withdrawals. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed hope for a favorable outcome from the opposition’s advances, advocating for peace efforts in the region. Notably, Qatari support for opposition factions has transitioned from initial military backing to advocating for a negotiated peace, amid concerns over an offensive led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) which rapidly gained ground in Aleppo and Hama, presenting potential threats to neighboring countries including Iraq and Türkiye. Araghchi emphasized in prior statements the broader implications of the Syrian conflict on regional stability.

The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011, has resulted in a protracted conflict involving various factions and external actors. Türkiye, Iran, and Russia have been key players in attempts to broker peace under the Astana format, functioning as a platform for negotiations aimed at resolving the humanitarian and military crises in Syria. The involvement of anti-regime forces, particularly recently consequential offensives, shifts the dynamic of the conflict, compelling discussions aimed at recalibrating the political landscape of the region. Regional stability is a prevalent concern, with possibilities of spillover effects impacting surrounding nations.

The discussions held in Doha signify a crucial step in addressing the evolving conflict in Syria, with a notable shift in power dynamics raising concerns across the Middle East. The agreement to initiate political dialogue may provide a pathway toward easing tensions, although the situation remains precarious, particularly given the reported advances of opposition forces toward the capital. Ongoing talks among the involved nations reflect a commitment to achieving a sustainable resolution amidst a complex and volatile backdrop.

Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com