Syria's Role in Middle East Analyzed

The Stimson Center, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that provides analysis of international peace and security, has published a new analysis on the position of Syria in the complex political workings of the Middle East. The analysis, authored by Emile El-Hokayem, is titled "Engaging Syria: Redefining Syria's Role in the Middle East" and is available on the Stimson Center web site.

According to the analysis, Syria is playing a key role in all of the many ongoing conflicts in the Middle East region, often finding itself at odds with much of the international community. Discussion in the United States concerning Syria usually involves debate about Syrian interference with the Lebanese government and the arming of the terrorist group Hezbollah by way of Syrian trade routes. But the Stimson Center says that American concerns with reference to Syria extend beyond the borders of Israel's northern neighbor.

Specifically cited in the analysis as American areas of concern are Syria's facilitation of insurgent activities in Iraq and Syria's strengthening relationship with Iran. Given Syria's current activities in the region, the Stimson Center says, engaging in dialogue with the regime in Damascus may not prove productive or worthwhile.

In discussing Syria's interest in Lebanon, the analysis says Syrian abstention from interference in upcoming presidential elections in Lebanon would open the door for improved cooperation between Syria and the international community. However, the analysis notes, Syrian concerns about a loss of influence in Lebanon and the region make it likely that Syrian interference will occur. The analysis also notes that Syria uses Lebanon as a proxy in its conflicts with several international players, including Israel, the United States, Saudi Arabia and France.

According to the Stimson Center, Syria hopes that one day the international community will get tired of the Syria-Lebanon issue, which, when added to a new administration in the United States could improve Syria's regional standing.