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Syria Project

Our work on Syria sheds light on the ongoing struggle of Syrians to fulfill their desire for democratic self-governance as the United States and the international community grapple with the aftermath of a devastating civil war, millions of refugees across the Middle East and Europe, and ongoing security and political challenges spilling over Syria’s borders.


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Syria Strategy Project

The Atlantic Council, Middle East Institute, and European Institute of Peace collaborate with subject matter experts and policymakers in the US, Europe, and the Middle East to develop a holistic strategy to sustainably forge a pathway to resolving Syria’s crisis.

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Middle East Programs

Working with our allies and partners in Europe and the wider Middle East to protect US interests, build peace and security, and unlock the human potential of the region.

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SyriaSource

Aug 15, 2016

Aleppo: A Chance to Save US Syria Policy

By Feras Hanoush

For years, the White House administration has focused its Syria policy on fighting terrorism, even as it reluctantly remains a main player in efforts to negotiate a settlement. To this end, the White House has offered to cooperate with the Russian military in Syria, to exchange information and set strategic goals to coordinate strikes on […]

Syria

In the News

Aug 12, 2016

Mardini Quoted by the New York Times on the Battle for Aleppo

By Ramzy Mardini

Read the full article here.

Syria

SyriaSource

Aug 12, 2016

The Political Moves behind the Siege of Aleppo

By Youssef Sadaki

The latest battle for Aleppo is not just over the fate of the city, or even the fate of the Syrian civil war. The balance of power in the region as a whole is also at stake. Complex events at the local and international levels have led to the regime tightening siege around Aleppo and […]

Syria

In the News

Aug 11, 2016

Hof in World Post: Syria: Good News and Bad

By Frederic C. Hof

Read the full article here.

Syria

SyriaSource

Aug 11, 2016

Aleppo’s Last Doctors’ Plea to Obama

By Doctors of Aleppo

15 of the remaining doctors in eastern Aleppo have written a desperate plea to President Obama, begging him to act to stop the bombs and to protect the 300,000 people who remain in what was Syria’s largest city. The appeal comes after opposition troops lifted a month-long siege during which pro-government troops cut the city […]

Syria

MENASource

Aug 10, 2016

Can Riyadh Make the Case for Stronger Partnership?

By Frederic C. Hof

The leaders of the Saudi Kingdom worry that the foundation undergirding a 70-year partnership with the United States is eroding. A pro-Iran narrative assigning the fatherhood of jihadist extremism to Saudi Arabia picks up steam, while White House denizens make no secret of their displeasure with the Kingdom. Even the President of the United States […]

Iran Saudi Arabia

In the News

Aug 9, 2016

McFate Quoted by The Daily Beast on Private Military Contractors in Syria

By Sean McFate

Read the full article here.

Syria

In the News

Aug 9, 2016

Itani Quoted by Associated Press on Turkey’s Involvement in Syria

By Faysal Itani

Read the full article here.

Syria Turkey

SyriaSource

Aug 8, 2016

Breaking the Siege of Aleppo Improves Jaish al-Fateh’s Standing with Syrians

By Saleem al-Omar

On Saturday, opposition forces broke the regime’s siege on Aleppo. Though the situation is critical, Syrians in opposition territories are rejoicing at the news. The opposition’s advance came as the opposition coalition known as Jaish al-Fateh, which is dominated by Islamist groups, showed unprecedented unity among groups that are normally fragmented and operating individually. The […]

Syria

In the News

Aug 8, 2016

Itani Quoted by The Daily Beast on US Role in Aleppo Siege

By Faysal Itani

Read the full article here.

Syria

Experts