In brief
After the fall of Bashar al-Assad, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are reevaluating their strategies in Syria, wary of Islamist influences from the new ruling factions.
The recent overthrow of the long-standing Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad has created a significant geopolitical shift in the Middle East, particularly affecting relations among regional powers. For years, Syria was a close ally of Iran, posing a challenge for Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as they sought to counter Iranian influence in the region. However, with Assad removed from power, a vacuum has emerged that Gulf nations are eager to fill, though they proceed with caution.The rebel faction Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which has gained substantial control over parts of Syria, presents new challenges for Saudi Arabia and the UAE. HTS has Islamic affiliations and previously had connections to Al-Qaeda, which raises concerns among the Gulf states that have spent two decades trying to impede the spread of political Islam groups, including Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.While recognizing the potential opportunities for strengthening ties with a new Syrian leadership, both Saudi Arabia and the UAE demand that the leaders demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and tolerance for Syria’s diverse sects. Anwar Gargash, a prominent adviser to the President of the UAE, highlighted the apprehensions regarding the nature of HTS and its past associations. As the scenario in Syria continues to unfold, the approach of Saudi Arabia and the UAE will be closely monitored, as it may have significant implications not only for the region but also for global geopolitics in the ongoing struggle against Islamist extremism.
