Saudi-Syrian relations have witnessed a major strategic shift recently, culminating in the resumption of diplomatic ties and Syria's return to its seat in the Arab League. This move is part of a broader Saudi diplomatic vision aimed at resolving regional problems and strengthening joint Arab action. However, the issue of international sanctions imposed on Damascus remains a significant challenge to full economic recovery.
The context and background of the diplomatic return
After a break of more than a decade since 2011, Saudi Arabia led an intensive diplomatic effort in 2023, which resulted in Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s participation in the Arab Summit held in Jeddah in May 2023. This step was not just a protocol procedure, but rather the culmination of the “step-for-step” approach adopted by the Arab states to reach a comprehensive political solution to the Syrian crisis, guaranteeing the unity of Syrian territory and ending foreign interventions.
Dealing with the international sanctions file
Despite the Arab rapprochement, Western sanctions, particularly the US Caesar Act, continue to hinder the flow of major investments and reconstruction efforts. The Saudi position focuses on political realism; Riyadh believes that isolating Syria has not achieved the desired results and that direct dialogue is the most effective way to address security and political concerns. Through this rapprochement, Saudi diplomacy seeks to create the appropriate conditions for implementing UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which could pave the way for a future review of international sanctions if tangible progress is made in the political process.
Human, security and economic dimensions
Saudi efforts are of paramount importance on several levels:
- The humanitarian file: Facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid to those affected, especially after the earthquake disaster in February 2023, and working to create conditions for a safe and voluntary return of Syrian refugees who are a burden on neighboring countries.
- Regional security: Joint cooperation to combat drug smuggling and control borders, a file that directly affects Saudi and Jordanian national security.
- Regional stability: Reintegrating Syria into the Arab fold reduces the influence of non-Arab regional powers in Damascus and restores the geopolitical balance of the region.
In conclusion, the Saudi role in the Syrian issue represents a model of active diplomacy that prioritizes the language of interests and regional stability, with the understanding that lifting international sanctions completely is a long process that requires international agreements and internal political reforms.
