The Syrian Foreign Minister and General Intelligence Chief arrived in Riyadh to join an international coalition meeting against ISIS, marking a significant return for Syria after years of absence.
Syria's participation in an international coalition meeting against the Islamic State marks a notable shift in its diplomatic relations, particularly since its official accession to the coalition in November the previous year. The Syrian delegation, including Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad and the Chief of General Intelligence, Hossam al-Salamah, was welcomed by the Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister, symbolizing a warming of ties between Damascus and Riyadh.
This meeting is significant as it represents Syria's first major engagement in the coalition organized by the United States, which has been active against ISIS since 2014. Historically, the Syrian government, under the leadership of Bashar al-Assad, refrained from participating in coalition operations aimed at diminishing the power of ISIS in the region. Observers view this move as a step towards reinforcing Syria's role in regional security dialogues, especially following a prolonged absence from discussions surrounding ISIS.
The establishment of the international coalition in 2014 was prompted by the rapid expansion of ISIS's influence across Iraq and Syria. With many countries, including the United States, actively conducting military operations to curb the organization's advances, Syria's newfound involvement could indicate a shift in geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East. It raises questions about the future of Syrian engagement and cooperation within this multinational framework aimed at combating extremist organizations.
