Summary of "Trump's Next Foreign Policy Challenge: Syria"
Podcast: The NPR Politics Podcast
Host/Authors: Susan Davis & Greg Myhre
Guest: Jane Araf
Release Date: February 27, 2025
Introduction to Syria's Political Landscape
In this episode, Susan Davis and Greg Myhre delve into the evolving political situation in Syria following the rapid collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December. They welcome Jane Araf, reporting from Damascus, to provide an on-the-ground perspective.
“There was a civil war in Syria for about 14 years under the government of Bashar al Assad. And then suddenly it all just seemed to collapse very quickly back in December.”
— Susan Davis [01:00]
Ascension of Ahmed Ashara
Jane Araf explains the emergence of Ahmed Ashara as Syria's interim president. Formerly an opposition and insurgency fighter with ties to Al Qaeda, Ashara has rapidly consolidated power by uniting diverse factions within Syria.
“Ashara, the interim president, is causing a little bit of concern in Washington and other places because he was once with Al Qaeda... he’s really got a tough task ahead of him.”
— Jane Araf [01:23]
Syria's Ethnic and Religious Diversity
The discussion highlights Syria's intricate ethnic and religious mosaic, which poses significant challenges for national unity. Balancing the interests of Kurds, Alawites, Christians, and other groups is crucial for stability.
“Syria is probably the most diverse. I mean, we've got a civilization here that goes back thousands of years and it's multi ethnic, it's multi religious.”
— Jane Araf [02:36]
On-the-Ground Reality in Damascus
Greg Myhre shares his observations from Damascus, noting a surprising sense of normalcy despite years of conflict. Infrastructure remains strained, and economic hardships persist, exacerbated by stringent US sanctions.
“I was surprised at the attitude and how normal many of the Syrians seem to be.”
— Greg Myhre [03:43]
Stacey adds that initial euphoria has given way to a sobering reality of prolonged rebuilding efforts hindered by economic sanctions.
“There are US sanctions in place that are really preventing the government from moving forward and doing things like even paying salaries for policemen.”
— Stacey [05:46]
Impact on Syrian Refugees
The podcast touches on the plight of millions of Syrian refugees displaced over the past 14 years. While many reside in neighboring countries or the US, return remains fraught with obstacles such as destroyed homes and lack of opportunities.
“There's no place to live, there's no jobs, there's no electricity or water. So they really can't go home and start rebuilding their lives as much as they want to.”
— Greg Myhre [05:59]
A poignant story is shared about Abdul Wahab Omera, a young Syrian innovator whose life was upended by war, highlighting the human cost of the conflict and the resilience of the Syrian people.
“He developed a better way to dispose of nuclear waste. He got a patent in Syria at age 14... He's a budding entrepreneur.”
— Greg Myhre [06:37]
US Sanctions and Diplomatic Struggles
The discussion emphasizes the crippling effect of US sanctions on Syria's economy and international relations. Efforts by Ashara to engage with the US face significant barriers, including the longstanding closure of the US embassy in Syria.
“The US has such a key role in the international banking system... it really something that has to be untangled and has to be untangled pretty quickly.”
— Jane Araf [08:37]
Trump Administration's Stance on Syria
Greg Myhre critiques President Trump's inconsistent and dismissive approach to Syria, juxtaposing it with the administration's broader Middle East policies focused on Asia and China.
“Trump, like Presidents Biden and Obama, has wanted to pivot away from the Middle East, focus more on Asia, China in particular.”
— Greg Myhre [10:36]
Trump's reluctance to engage deeply in Syria is contrasted with his contradictory statements about taking control of Gaza and applying pressure on Iran.
“Trump... said, we're not involved in Syria. Syria is its own mess.”
— Greg Myhre [10:36]
Role of US Troops in Syria
Jane Araf clarifies that the remaining US troops in Syria are primarily focused on combating ISIS and preventing the group's resurgence, highlighting the strategic importance of their presence.
“They are mainly there to counter ISIS, the militant group from resurfacing.”
— Jane Araf [12:05]
Potential repercussions of a US withdrawal include increased influence from regional powers like Turkey and continued instability.
“Turkey has held talks in which it appears they have offered to build more bases here.”
— Jane Araf [12:05]
Russia's Diminished Influence
The episode addresses Russia's reduced role in Syria post-Assad's fall, noting the withdrawal of Russian troops and the loss of strategic bases, although Russia aims to maintain limited influence through key ports.
“Russia is hugely important. Their power here and their influence has been severely diminished.”
— Jane Araf [14:25]
Regional Implications and US Policy Recommendations
Susan Davis questions whether a more isolationist US approach might be beneficial in the Middle East, given historical context like the Iraq War and current sentiments.
“Is it possible that a less engaged US is actually a very welcome new reality in the Middle East?”
— Susan Davis [14:37]
Greg Myhre suggests that while decreased US involvement may be welcomed in some areas, Syria presents a unique case where Americans are still desired for rebuilding and normalizing relations.
“Syrians are very open to talking to the Americans, to doing things with the Americans.”
— Greg Myhre [15:42]
Conclusion: The Path Forward for US-Syria Relations
The podcast concludes with reflections on the necessity for the US to reassess its stance on Syria amidst significant regional changes. The potential for American investment and diplomatic engagement remains, contingent on lifting sanctions and reopening diplomatic channels.
“The US needs to reevaluate all these upheavals and figure out what's coming next.”
— Greg Myhre [10:36]
“This is not a country where people are openly upset, as they are in other Arab countries, about US backing for Israel in the Gaza war. And what that means is it is seemingly a much friendlier atmosphere for Americans and American investment.”
— Stacey [16:42]
This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of Syria's fragile post-conflict state, the complexities of its diverse society, and the intricate dance of international diplomacy involving the US, Russia, and regional powers. It underscores the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for President Trump's foreign policy as the US navigates its role in a rapidly changing Middle East.