Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah held discussions with Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam Sabbagh regarding evolving regional tensions marked by violent opposition advances in Aleppo. Egyptian FM Badr Abdel Aty also confirmed support for Syria’s territorial integrity. Armed factions launched significant attacks in Aleppo, suggesting a worsening security situation in the region.
On Saturday, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, engaged in a phone conversation with his Syrian counterpart, Foreign Minister Bassam Sabbagh, to deliberate on the changing dynamics within the region. This exchange occurred amid renewed tensions, particularly in light of recent developments that have seen armed opposition groups making significant advances in northern Syria, including the capture of 75% of the city of Aleppo. The Saudi Foreign Ministry issued a statement highlighting the focus of the talks on regional challenges and cooperative efforts to address them.
Compounding these discussions, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aty also communicated with Minister Sabbagh, reiterating Egypt’s commitment to supporting Syria’s sovereignty and national institutions. Abdel Aty underscored Syria’s crucial role in promoting regional stability, fighting terrorism, and safeguarding its territorial integrity. This dialogue illustrates a growing concern among regional actors about the implications of escalating tensions within Syria, particularly given the recent military actions in Aleppo.
On the previous Friday, Turkish-backed factions initiated a surprise offensive targeting government-controlled territories in Aleppo, marking one of the most ferocious assaults in recent years. Supported by extensive shelling, these groups successfully entered Aleppo, which had been recaptured by Syrian government forces in 2016. The rapid momentum of the opposition not only allowed for a resurgence in Aleppo but also enabled control over the strategic city of Saraqib in Idlib Province. The situation remains fluid and reflects the deteriorating security landscape in the region.
The ongoing conflict in Syria has led to significant geopolitical shifts, involving various regional powers keen on influencing the outcome in their favor. Saudi Arabia and Syria, historically at odds due to differing political alignments, are now navigating a complex landscape characterized by the resurgence of armed opposition groups, particularly in the north. The capture of major cities by such factions poses a direct challenge to both Syrian sovereignty and regional stability, prompting renewed dialogues among neighboring nations, including Egypt.
The discussions between Saudi Arabia and Syria signal a pivotal moment in regional diplomacy amid escalating violence in northern Syria. As the situation in Aleppo intensifies with renewed opposition activity, the involvement of key players like Egypt highlights the collective urgency to address threats against national sovereignty and stability. The unfolding events not only impact Syria but have broader implications for regional security dynamics.
Original Source: shafaq.com
