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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

Jul 1, 2016

A Telling US Outreach to Russia in Syria

By Faysal Itani

As recently as a few weeks ago the United States had repeatedly rejected strategic cooperation with Russia in Syria. Now it is reportedly proposing a limited partnership there, in which the United States would share intelligence and coordinate attacks with Russia against the al-Qaeda-affiliated Nusra Front. In return, Russia will compel the Assad regime to […]

Syria

In the News

Jul 1, 2016

Itani Quoted by The Telegraph on US Syria Strategy

By Faysal Itani

Read the full article here.

Syria
United States and Canada

In the News

Jun 30, 2016

Hof Quoted by Rare on Russia and the United States in Syria

By Frederic C. Hof

Read the full article here.

Russia
Syria

SyriaSource

Jun 29, 2016

What the Suicide Bombings in al-Qaa Tell Us about Terrorist Tactics in Lebanon

By Mona Alami

On Monday June 27, Eight suicide bombings struck the predominantly Christian town of al-Qaa on the Lebanese border with Syria. Lebanese security officials believe the attacks to be the work of the Islamic State (ISIS), though the terrorist organization has not claimed responsibility. Whether or not ISIS is responsible, the attacks reflect a shift in […]

Syria

In the News

Jun 28, 2016

Stein Quoted by Foreign Policy on ISIS’ Failure to Claim Responsibility for Istanbul

By Aaron Stein

Read the full article here.

Syria

SyriaSource

Jun 27, 2016

On the Anniversary of Hafez al-Assad’s Death: How He Divided the Alawite Sect

By Saleem al-Omar

This month marks the sixteenth anniversary of the death of Hafez al-Assad, a man who built the foundation of Syria’s civil war and still influences its course today. He had supported his Alawite sect along with other minorities to secure their support for him and as a counterweight to the Sunnis, showing favoritism towards those […]

Syria

In the News

Jun 25, 2016

Itani Quoted by Muftah on Russia’s Role in Syria

By Faysal Itani

Read the full article here.

Russia
Syria

In the News

Jun 25, 2016

Hof Quoted by RFE/RL on Russia’s Strategy in Syria

By Frederic C. Hof

Read the full article here.

Russia
Syria

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Jun 23, 2016

Urban Development Seen as Critical to Countering Violent Extremism

By Meghan Rowley

Food, water, and energy insecurity, as well as economic and social inequality, form a “nexus” of issues that create an environment that breeds violent extremism, according to a senior US State Department official.

France
National Security

SyriaSource

Jun 23, 2016

Can Military Action Save Syria?

By Omar Hossino

Last week, 51 State Department diplomats signed a dissent memo critical of US policy in Syria, calling for military strikes against President Bashar al-Assad’s government to force it to adhere to the February 26 cessation of hostilities (CoH). Concrete military action against the regime is the only course of action available to the United States […]

Syria

Experts