Syria: The proliferation of diplomatic initiatives comes up against the reality of power relations

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The view of Didier Billion, is Deputy Director of IRIS

There is multiplication of diplomatic initiatives that are the product of an inextricable situation to date. Two weeks ago, there was a hope, admittedly very relative, implementation of peace talks between the parties to the conflict in Syria. The intensification of the Russian military intervention, especially around the Aleppo region, has unfortunately rendered futile pursuit of the discussions that were initiated in Geneva.

Today, the military and political situation, but mostly humanitarian, poses a challenge to that extent international community. This is why we see hatched a series of diplomatic initiatives, none of which is in itself bad, but none of which is able to truly impose on others. Considering the deadlock and the failure to try to resume political thread, there is a sort of flight forward.

“The diplomats who put a lot of energy to try to get on diplomatic talks in Geneva are exceeded by Russian initiatives that are not the result of chance. The timing was particularly calculated. Today, troops loyal to Assad, with the intensity of the Russian response, are now up ground and position to retake the city of Aleppo. All this reshuffling the cards.”

On the issue of refugees, there is a total impotence, particularly the Europeans who are nonetheless objectively frontline. Like it or not, until a political solution has been implemented in Syria, the incessant flow and magnifying refugees from Syria will continue to grow.

Read the entire article (in french) on IRIS website

Certified in history and geography, Doctor in political sciences, he is a professor for the National Education. He joined IRIS in 1991, as research fellow for Middle East issues and more particularly contemporary Turkey.