Syria and Its Role in the Arab-Israeli Peace Process
Abstract
In this study of Syria and its role in the peace process several key questions are asked: How is it that Syria has emerged after five consecutive defeats on the field of battle, the most recent being in 1982 in Lebanon, to become such an important and influential player in blocking repeated attempts to secure a permanent and long lasting peace in the region? How is it that despite a damaging military setback in 1982 against the Israelis, and military conflict with the United States in 1983, the Syrians have emerged as a near hegemonistic power within Lebanon, while the U.S. has withdrawn from that country and the overt Israeli presence has been reduced to a small enclave just north of its border with Lebanon? What is the Syrian role as guarantor of the Palestinian quest for self-determination, and within this role, why have the Syrians on several occasions viciously turned on the PLO? And Finally, as the only frontline Arab nation still in confrontation with the Israelis, how will the Syrians work the peace process to effect the return of the strategic Golan Heights to Syrian sovereignty. Seeing no progress, will the Syrians continue to be intransigent on all peace overtures proposed?
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 02, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA167384
Entities
People
- Peter B. Zwack
Organizations
- Defense Intelligence Agency