Former US Ambassador Robert Ford suggests that the US should withdraw its forces from Syria to better support the region. He advocates for collaboration with the new transitional government to combat ISIS and highlights the importance of easing sanctions and fostering domestic democracy.
Former US Ambassador to Syria, Robert Ford, contends that the optimal way for the US to assist Syria is to withdraw its military forces. He emphasizes that engaging with the newly formed transitional government in Damascus would allow the US to exit Syria on favorable terms. In his article for Foreign Affairs, he states, “Partnering with the new transitional government in Damascus would let the US leave Syria on its own terms.”
Ford argues that the US military presence has become increasingly unviable, pointing out that US forces are susceptible to attack and suffer from unclear missions and objectives. He notes, “US forces in Syria are vulnerable to attack, lack a clear mission, and are faced with no clear objectives.” Despite backing the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) against Daesh/ISIS, he believes a change in strategy is necessary for progress.
Commenting on the shift in Syrian leadership, Ford proposes collaboration with a potentially stronger partner in the fight against remaining ISIS threats: the new Syrian government in Damascus. He suggests that the changing political landscape necessitates clear communication with the SDF regarding future security and administration, including the gradual dissolution of the group.
He also highlights the need to ease sanctions imposed on Syria to foster stability and improve ISIS combat capabilities. Ford argues that public activism, grounded in the rule of law and the safeguarding of political freedoms, is essential for Syria to establish a true democracy. He maintains that this process should be driven by Syrians themselves, stating, “it should not require an American hand on the wheel—or American boots on the ground.”
Syrian President Bashar Assad, who has been in power for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on December 8, marking the end of the Baath Party’s long-term regime. Subsequently, on January 29, the transitional phase began with Ahmed al-Sharaa appointed as president, prompting the dissolution of armed factions, security agencies, the Baath Party, and the previous constitution.
The former US Ambassador to Syria, Robert Ford, advocates for a withdrawal of US forces as a means to better assist Syria. He argues for collaboration with the new transitional government in combatting ISIS, easing sanctions, and promoting democracy while allowing Syrians to lead the recovery process. His proposals emphasize the evolving political landscape and the necessity for a strategic shift in US involvement.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
