Foreign Affairs Forum

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Is regime change in Syria best solution for Middleeast? If yes who will come into power?

Introduction

The question of whether regime change in Syria is the best solution for the Middle East is complex and does not have a straightforward answer.

However, based on the current situation and recent developments, we can analyze the potential implications:

Potential Benefits of Regime Change

Regional Stability
Removing the Assad regime could potentially lead to:

Reduced Iranian influence in the region

Improved relations with neighboring countries

Addressing the refugee crisis more effectively

Economic Recovery


A new government might:

Implement economic reforms to address the dire situation where 80-90% of Syrians are on the brink of starvation

Attract international investment for reconstruction

Human Rights and Democracy
A transition could potentially:

End the systematic human rights abuses associated with the Assad regime

Pave the way for a more representative government

Challenges and Risks

Power Vacuum

The fall of Assad could lead to a power struggle among various factions

There’s a risk of increased instability or even a resurgence of extremist groups

International Involvement

The proxy nature of the conflict means that various international actors have stakes in Syria’s future

Balancing these interests while prioritizing Syrian sovereignty would be challenging

Reconstruction and Reconciliation

Rebuilding Syria’s infrastructure and economy would require massive resources

Healing the deep societal divisions after years of conflict would be a long-term process

Potential Successors

If regime change were to occur, several possibilities for new leadership exist:

Opposition Coalition

A government formed by the National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces, which is internationally recognized

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)

While currently leading the offensive, their former ties to al-Qaeda and designation as a terrorist organization make international acceptance unlikely

Transitional Government

A power-sharing arrangement between moderate opposition groups and reformed elements of the current government, as outlined in UN Resolution 2254

Military Leadership

A figure from the rebel military groups, possibly from the Syrian National Army

International Interim Administration:

Temporarily governed by a UN-mandated body to oversee a transition to democratic elections

Conclusion

While regime change in Syria could potentially address some of the root causes of regional instability, it also carries significant risks. The best solution would likely involve a carefully managed political transition that includes.

Implementation of a plan working with proxies mostly Russia, Turkey, US and UN help in rebuilding a new regime.

Implementation of UN Resolution 2254 for a inclusive political process

International support for reconstruction and reconciliation

Measures to prevent the resurgence of extremist groups

A focus on addressing the humanitarian crisis and refugee situation

Ultimately, any solution should prioritize the well-being and self-determination of the Syrian people while considering the complex regional dynamics at play.