Syria

The Syrian conflict that began with nonviolent local protests in 2011 has since evolved into a geopolitical and humanitarian crisis. The devastating military campaign led by the Syrian regime, supported by the Russian and Iranian governments and their proxies has led to mass displacement, arrests, torture, and catastrophic loss of life. Along with other global powers, the United States faces important decisions regarding its future role in Syria. Centering Syrian voices is critical during this period of stabilization as the war-torn country grapples with security, economic, and political challenges amidst ongoing regional and international competition.

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Explore our Syria work

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.

Group of world leaders sitting around table set up.

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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Learn more about the Middle East programs

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.

Content

MENASource

Feb 13, 2025

Dispatch from Syria: ‘Syrians cannot focus on their future if they are still drowning in their past’

By Arwa Damon

The pain felt by those searching for clues in the dark void of the former regime’s detention system is palpable, Arwa Damon reports from Syria.

Conflict Crisis Management

In the News

Feb 1, 2025

Pınar Dost contributed to a piece for Amwaj.media, on why Saudi-Turkish collaboration in Syria is more likely than a clash.

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy

MENASource

Jan 31, 2025

The foreign aid freeze poses risks to US interests in Syria

By Diana Rayes 

Postwar Syria faces a precarious economic and security situation and the United States’ assistance—or lack thereof—will play an outsize role in its outcome.

Democratic Transitions Economy & Business

Strategic Litigation

Jan 28, 2025

Strategic Litigation Quarterly Newsletter: A look back at 2024

By Strategic Litigation Project

The latest updates on the Strategic Litigation Project's work advancing human rights and accountability.

Afghanistan China

New Atlanticist

Jan 23, 2025

Syria’s post-Assad honeymoon is over. Now the hard work of state-building begins.

By Sinan Hatahet

The coming months will determine whether Syria’s new era will be a story of renewal or yet another missed opportunity.

Conflict Economy & Business

Issue Brief

Jan 17, 2025

Syria’s energy sector and its impact on stability and regional developments

By Brenda Shaffer

An analysis of Syria’s energy resources and infrastructure, and outlook on the future of Syrian energy production and trade.

Energy & Environment Energy Markets & Governance

In the News

Jan 16, 2025

Shaffer quoted by BBC on Turkey’s role in Syria’s reconstruction

By Brenda Shaffer

Middle East Security & Defense

MENASource

Jan 15, 2025

As a new Syria takes shape, Iraq will need to recalibrate its role in the Middle East

By Abbas Kadhim

The Iraqi government must navigate several challenges, recalibrate its role in the region, and balance its foreign relations—including with the United States

Crisis Management Democratic Transitions

MENASource

Jan 13, 2025

Turkey’s Syria and Libya strategies add up to a Mediterranean power play

By Emadeddin Badi and Abdullah al-Jabassini 

By aligning its strategies in Libya and Syria, Turkey seeks to consolidate influence and amplify its leverage across both theaters.

Defense Policy Drones

In the News

Jan 12, 2025

Pınar Dost spoke to Alberto Magnani from Il Sole 24 Ore on Syria and Turkiye-Israel relations in light of the developments in Syria.

Conflict Middle East

Experts

Events