Syrian activists, who once participated in anti-government protests, were taken aback when President Bashar Assad made an appearance in Saudi Arabia for a summit on the Hamas-Israel conflict.
This move has stirred controversy, especially considering Assad’s role in the Syrian civil war, which left millions displaced and claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. The summit aimed to address Israel’s alleged violations of international humanitarian laws, but Assad’s presence has drawn criticism and accusations of hypocrisy.
Assad’s Speech in Riyadh:
During the summit, Assad delivered a speech critical of normalization agreements between Middle Eastern countries and Israel. This has sparked outrage among Syrian activists who hold Assad responsible for widespread brutality, including displacement, torture, and countless deaths during the long-lasting Syrian conflict. Critics view Assad’s comments on the Gaza situation as hypocritical, given his own track record in Syria.
Syria’s Complex Relationship with Palestinians:
Syria’s relationship with Palestinians, particularly the Hamas group, is intricate and has evolved over the years. While Damascus was once a refuge for Palestinians fleeing Israel, tensions arose when the Syrian civil war began in 2011. The Hamas group refused to take sides in the conflict, leading to a souring of relations. Assad’s forces even targeted Palestinian civilians in the Yarmouk district, drawing comparisons to the situation in Gaza.
Reconciliation and Regional Dynamics:
Despite past tensions, Syria and Hamas reconciled in late 2022 after Assad’s readmission to the Arab League. However, signs indicate that trust between the two remains fragile. The recent summit in Riyadh saw participating countries, including Syria, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. While Syria signed the resolution, its role in the current conflict remains limited.
Assessing Assad’s Actions:
Assad’s presence in Saudi Arabia has prompted Syrian activists to reflect on the lack of justice and accountability for alleged crimes committed during the civil war. Many see it as a painful reminder of the ongoing struggle for peace and justice in the region. The international community’s response to Assad’s participation raises questions about the enforcement of humanitarian law and the interconnectedness of conflicts in the Middle East.
Conclusion:
The controversy surrounding Bashar Assad’s appearance in Saudi Arabia reflects the complex dynamics of the region and the enduring impact of the Syrian civil war. Syrian activists, still advocating for justice, view events like the Riyadh summit as crucial moments that demand accountability for past atrocities. As regional tensions persist, the role of key players, including Syria, continues to shape the narrative of the broader Middle East conflict.
