Regional Powers Vie as Syrian Unrest Escalates

Amid escalating violence in southern Syria’s Druze-majority Suwayda province, newly installed President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, formerly known as Al-Jolani, faces mounting challenges to unify the nation as unrest grows. Regional tensions are heightened by renewed Israeli airstrikes and accusations by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan that Israel is exploiting the crisis to destabilize Syria and align with local minorities. The US has expressed support for Al-Sharaa’s government, aiming for greater stability, while Israel remains cautious due to Al-Sharaa’s prior affiliations and ties with Turkey. Iran is considering deeper involvement to counter Israel’s influence, prioritizing its own regional agenda over minority interests. These developments reflect a broader contest among Israel, Iran, Turkey, and Western powers for influence in Syria. The ongoing conflict continues to destabilize the country and the wider region.