US Policy Options in Syria: An Argument for Diplomacy
Abstract
The Arab Spring revolutions in the Middle East are creating a new, complex environment with significant ramifications for both regional and international players. The family of Syrian President Bashar al Assad and its loyalists have ruled the country since 1970, oppressing the Sunni majority. In March 2011, opposition groups rebelled against the regime, with the conflict now entering its third bloody year. Faced with a continuously escalating and increasingly ambiguous situation on the ground in Syria, President Obama and his administration have struggled to find reasonable and actionable choices. What is clear is that the Syrian conflict is a destabilizing influence on the region and is a direct threat to US interests. In this paper we review current US policy towards Syria, and articulate three potential options for US involvement. Ultimately the administration has to choose between 1) intervention, 2) military aid to the rebels, or 3) renewed diplomacy. This paper advocates a new approach to diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA589104
Entities
People
- Geoffrey A. Catlett
Organizations
- United States Army War College