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Journalism of Courage
Syria has recognised Lebanese sovereignty for the first time in six decades. This is a momentous change of tone for Bashar al-Assad8217;s leadership, and mirrors larger changes in the Middle East region, explains Alia Allana.
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8226;Why was Syria in Lebanon?
Syrian presence in Lebanon was a result of the Lebanese Civil War which lasted 15 years. Following this period, Syria continued to exert influence and maintained a presence in Lebanon, influencing both domestic and foreign policy. This retreat comes in the face of growing criticism of Syria8217;s role in Lebanon from both regional and international players.
8226;What changes have occurred in the Middle East to herald such a move?
The first major change in Syria arises from its attempted reconciliation with Israel attempting to end the age-old rivalry between the two powers. In May 2008, Syria and Israel both announced informal peace-talks which had been brokered by the Turkish government. Talks are currently underway in Cairo regarding the Arab-Israeli peace process. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has emphasised the key role Syria plays in this region and the need for its support.
8226;Syria is on the list of states that sponsor terrorism; why?
Syria has been linked to the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Hezbollah8217;s aims are to 8220;liberate lands that have remained occupied8221; by Israel and to protect Lebanon from Israeli occupation. Israeli PM has responded by saying that they have 8220;no intention8221; of attacking Lebanon or Syria. Syria has been placed on this list by the US due to several reasons other than Hezbollah 8212; Syria has allegedly bought nuclear technology illegally from North Korea; it has a very close relationship with Iran US State Deptand there are allegations that Syria was behind the death of Lebanese president and reformer Rafiq Hariri.
8226;Syria-Israel peace-talks counter the Bush administration8217;s strategy to isolate Syria; what has been the impetus behind these developments?
Middle Eastern powers have recognized the volatility in the region and have decided to take matters in their own hands irrespective of the policies of the Bush administration. This might lead to positive change, because Israel has approached both Syria and Lebanon. Both Syria and Lebanon need to be taken on board, because if one allies with the Israel and the other does not, there is potential for further conflict in the area. nbsp;
8226;How crucial is US support for peace in the Middle East?
A peace process without US support might not yield much result, and communication between the Syrian and US governments is very limited 8212; there is however the possibility of talks at the French-sponsored Euro-Mediterranean in Paris. This is where the Israeli and Syrian heads of states will talk face to face, for the first time in the history of the two countries.
