Jordan’s Foreign Minister met with Syria’s new leader following Assad’s fall, highlighting diplomatic shifts in the region. Jordan aims to secure borders and support Syria’s stability amidst historical ties and the refugee crisis.
On December 23, 2023, Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi engaged in significant discussions with Syria’s new leadership, which saw the rise of Ahmed al-Sharaa following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime on December 8. Sharaa, who leads Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has been hosting multiple international delegations from countries including Turkey, Qatar, and the United States, highlighting Jordan’s pivotal role given its historical and geographical ties to Syria. The Jordanian government emphasized its commitment to fostering security, territorial unity, and institutional stability in Syria, reflecting its intent to secure its northern border which has been compromised by the civil war and the influx of refugees.
Jordan shares a deeply intertwined history with Syria, marked by a complex relationship that has evolved through periods of cooperation and conflict. The fall of the Assad regime presents Jordan with new challenges and opportunities for diplomatic engagement. Jordan’s strategic interest in stabilizing northern borders stems from significant security concerns, including the rise of extremist groups such as ISIS and drug smuggling operations emerging from Syrian territories. Moreover, with around 680,000 Syrian refugees remaining in Jordan, the need for regional stability is paramount to address humanitarian as well as security issues.
The recent meeting between Jordan and the new Syrian leadership signifies a potential turning point in regional dynamics. Jordan seeks to mitigate security threats while fostering stability in Syria, a move that reflects a shift in its diplomatic stance following the fall of Assad. The outcome of this diplomatic engagement will be crucial for regional peace and the management of ongoing security threats, particularly the drug trade and militant activities linked to Syria.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
