Qatar Ready To Mediate If Syrian Rebels Clash

According to a top Qatari official, if the rebel factions that overthrew Syria’s regime begin clashing among themselves, Qatar may step in to mediate. Speaking in Doha on Tuesday, Majed Al-Ansari, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, hinted at the possibility, saying, “We never say no.”

Syria’s Triumph, But New Risks Loom

The ousting of Syria’s dictator Bashar al-Assad last weekend sparked celebrations across the country, marking a potential turning point for its long-suffering population. However, there are growing fears of internal power struggles. Neighboring countries worry that the coalition of factions that removed Assad in a swift offensive could descend into infighting, triggering renewed violence and instability.

Qatar Already Engaging With Syrian Groups

Al-Ansari confirmed that Qatar is maintaining contact with multiple groups within Syria. “We are in touch with all the relevant parties on the ground,” he said, while refraining from naming specific groups. A Reuters report on Monday revealed that Qatar has been in communication with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a leading rebel group.

A History Of Mediation

Qatar has earned a reputation as a mediator in high-stakes conflicts, including between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Should tensions rise among Syrian rebels, Qatar’s role as a go-between could expand its influence further, particularly as a partner to the United States. Historically, the U.S. has turned to Qatar for assistance in navigating complex conflicts, and Syria may prove no different.

U.S. Sanctions And Syria’s Future

The question of U.S. sanctions looms large in discussions about Syria’s future. Although Assad’s regime has fallen, American sanctions remain in place, potentially complicating efforts to rebuild the war-torn nation. HTS’s likely role in Syria’s future governance further complicates the matter, as the group is currently designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S.

When asked about lifting sanctions, Al-Ansari refrained from offering direct advice but noted, “We hope that there is every openness possible to bring aid and support for the Syrian people. On our end, nothing will stop us from getting aid into Syria.”

Calls For Unity Among Rebels

While leaving the door open to future mediation, Qatar is prioritizing unity among Syrian rebel groups. Al-Ansari emphasized the importance of cooperation, stating, “It’s sovereignty, the unity, the integrity of the national institutions, and the rights of all Syrians together. These are the messages we are sending to them right now, and we are getting very positive feedback.”

Diplomatic Meetings Underway

Qatar’s proactive stance was evident as it hosted a regional meeting on Saturday, bringing together Arab states, along with Assad allies Iran and Russia, to discuss Syria’s future. A statement from Qatar’s foreign ministry highlighted the urgency of a political solution to prevent further destabilization in Syria and the region.

Al-Ansari revealed that additional meetings among regional and international stakeholders are expected in the coming days, signaling continued diplomatic efforts to navigate Syria’s uncertain post-Assad era.

A Role For Qatar

As Syria faces the daunting challenge of rebuilding and fostering unity, Qatar’s readiness to mediate and provide aid positions it as a key player in shaping the country’s future. With its track record of diplomacy and strategic importance in the region, Qatar’s involvement could prove instrumental in steering Syria toward stability and peace.