Western allies and Arab nations meet in Paris to discuss Syria’s future after the ousting of Assad, amid concerns over U.S. aid suspension. The halt in support raises challenges in rebuilding efforts, revealing the need for significant international cooperation to address Syria’s humanitarian crisis. The new leadership must navigate a complex political landscape as the reconstruction cost surges to nearly $400 billion.
Western allies and Arab nations convened in Paris for an international conference on Syria’s future following the ousting of former President Bashar Assad. This conference marked the third such meeting since Assad’s fall and the first under the Trump administration, which has recently suspended foreign aid critical to Syria’s recovery.
The freeze on U.S. assistance, which had historically provided hundreds of millions of dollars to Syria, raises significant concerns about the country’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, particularly as it struggles post-civil war. The Trump administration’s decision to withdraw U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) personnel worldwide impacts the long-term goal of stabilizing regions through aid distribution.
Analysts warn the new leadership in Syria may face challenges in reviving the economy without alleviating sanctions imposed during Assad’s rule. An estimated $400 billion is now needed for reconstruction of essential infrastructure such as housing, electricity, and water systems devastated after 14 years of conflict, with immediate billions in aid highlighted as crucial for a peaceful transition.
The humanitarian situation is dire, especially in northwestern Syria, which houses displaced individuals in large tent camps. The USAID funding halt has forced many clinics to close and humanitarian organizations to lay off staff, exacerbating the hardships faced by those affected by the civil war.
The upcoming workshop at the Paris conference aims to coordinate international aid efforts among the G7 nations, the United Nations, and Arab partners. Additionally, there are unresolved issues concerning U.S. military support in the region following prior decisions to withdraw troops amid the unstable political climate in Syria.
A senior French diplomat indicated a U.S. representative would participate in the conference, but there remained uncertainty about the Biden administration’s stance on Syria. Meanwhile, new Syrian leadership under Ahmad Al-Sharaa faces challenges, particularly with the Islamic militant group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham becoming a significant power in the region.
The conference’s objectives focus on supporting a peaceful transition, enhancing cooperation among nations involved, and addressing ongoing issues of impunity. Syria’s interim foreign minister, Asaad Al-Shibani, is set to attend this critical meeting, his first visit to Europe, emphasizing Damascus’s willingness to improve relations with the West as the nation aims to lift sanctions for rebuilding.
The Paris conference represents a critical juncture for Syria’s reconstruction following years of civil conflict leading to the ousting of Bashar Assad. As the U.S. halts aid, countries must coordinate support to address the humanitarian crisis and economic devastation. The participation of Syrian leaders in European diplomatic discussions illustrates a potential shift in relations, emphasizing the need for strategic international collaboration in Syria’s recovery.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
