The recent seizure of power in Syria by the rebels, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday (8), was the result of a process negotiated weeks before in Qatar, according to political scientist Hussein Kalout in an interview with CNN. The expert highlighted that the fall of the regime did not involve bloody or prolonged fighting, as initially expected.
According to Kalout, the rebels’ advance was surprisingly rapid: “Within a week they reached the capital, within a week the regime basically left the capital.” This speed, according to him, is a clear indication that there was a prior agreement between the parties involved.
Negotiations in Qatar
The political scientist revealed that the negotiations took place in Qatar, involving representatives from Russia, Qatar and Türkiye. “More than two weeks ago, three weeks ago, it was known that these forces were well positioned, with a clear plan to reach Damascus very well armed,” said Kalout.
A crucial factor in the success of the operation was the absence of Russian military support for the Syrian regime. Kalout explained: “Russia would not be able to provide military cover for the regime. Without Russian coverage, the regime would not be able to survive.”
Weakening of Syrian air capacity
The expert also mentioned a previous episode that contributed to the weakening of the Syrian regime. During the Lebanon war, Israel bombed much of Syria’s air infrastructure, sparing only airports that housed Russian bases.
“The regime no longer had an air capacity to act,” concluded Kalout, highlighting the vulnerability of the Syrian government in the face of the rebel offensive.
The revelation of these diplomatic behind-the-scenes sheds new light on the geopolitical complexity of the region, highlighting the crucial role of international negotiations in the configuration of power in the Middle East.
