The Intelligence from The Economist In from the cold: Assad’s diplomatic redemption
May 18, 2023
Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East writer for The Economist and an expert on Syrian politics, discusses Bashar al-Assad's surprising return to the Arab League. They explore the diplomatic shifts in the region and the motivations behind normalizing relations with Syria, despite its controversial past. The conversation also touches on the ineffectiveness of sanctions affecting ordinary Syrians and highlights the growing importance of small community banks in the U.S. financial landscape, showcasing their resilience and role in supporting local economies.
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Assad's Return to Diplomacy
- Bashar al-Assad will attend the Arab League summit in Jeddah, despite Syria's suspension in 2011.
- This marks a significant shift, as even some Arab League members previously boycotted the event.
Regional Détente
- The Arab League's change of heart towards Syria stems from a broader trend of détente in the Middle East.
- This includes reconciliations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Turkey and Egypt, and the end of the Qatar blockade.
Hopes for Re-engagement
- Arab states hope to address three key issues by re-engaging with Syria: refugee return, Iranian influence, and Captagon trafficking.
- They see closer ties with Syria as a means to manage these challenges.