Syria’s Neighboring Countries: Diplomatic Coordination and Fear of Escalation

The discussion also dealt with the dimensions of the Iranian and Iraqi movement, in addition to the Turkish position, in the light of progress Armed opposition And its control over a number of strategic cities in Syria.

An attempt to contain the crisis

Agreement of Ministers of Foreign Affairs Iraq andSyria andIran A tripartite meeting was held in Baghdad to discuss the consequences of the Syrian situation, where Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein emphasized the importance of coordination with Arab countries and finding a unified attitude towards challenges in the region.

Hussein emphasized that the security of Iraq and Syria are interconnected, pointing to Iraq’s efforts to host an expanded international meeting to discuss developments in Syria.

Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam Al-Sabag believed that regional and international interventions aimed to divide the region again, warning of plans to change the political map, while his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araqchi confirmed his country’s full support for Syria, warning that terrorist threats can expand include neighboring countries.

This was explained by Zahid Gul in an intervention in the program Ankara He cautiously follows the developments in Syria, noting that “the military movements of the armed factions were not entirely with direct Turkish support, but were surprised, especially by the rapid collapse of government forces in Aleppo and a number of other cities.” “

He said: “The decisive battle will be in Homs, because it is a strategic node connecting Damascus to the coast.” If the opposition takes control of the city, the next step could be Damascus.”

He pointed out that “Turkey can benefit from these transformations to formulate a new attitude towards the Syrian government, with the possibility of reopening the path of negotiations.”

The city of Homs is the next axis of the Syrian conflict, because it is geographically located in the middle of the country and connects the south with the north.

Zahid Gul pointed out that the control of Homs would cut off land communication between Damascus and the coast, which represents a major challenge for the Syrian government and its allies.

He explained: “The armed opposition is seeking to resolve the battle of Homs to strengthen its ground and political position, but this may encourage the regime and its allies, including Hezbollah and Iranian militias, to strengthen their presence in the city.”

Regarding the extent of Turkey’s ability to control opposition armed factions, Zahid Gul emphasized that “this is a real test for Ankara”, noting that “Turkey’s responsibility goes beyond military support and includes imposing a political agenda that guarantees pluralism and coexistence in opposition-controlled areas.” .

He added: “If Turkey fails to impose a comprehensive political approach, the armed opposition and Turkey itself may face major challenges, including loss of control and continued chaos.”

As the battles continue and the opposition advances in numerous cities, the scenarios remain open to several possibilities, as Zahid Gul indicated that “the next phase will depend on the ability of the various parties to manage the terrain and political balances, warning that the absence of political solutions could lead to humanitarian disasters.