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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Past events

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

Report

Mar 11, 2026

Is Syria on the right path?

By Asaad Sam Hanna

In the year since the ouster of the Assad regime in December 2024, Syria has undergone a massive transformation. How has this played out so far?

Middle East Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding

Report

Mar 11, 2026

Foe or friend? US-Turkey bilateral relations seem set to improve as interests align

By Rich Outzen

If Turkey and the US pursue compatible goals and interests, room remains to balance internal political benefits with geopolitical cooperation.

Conflict Defense Policy

Report

Mar 11, 2026

Navigating change: US-Turkish defense relations in 2026

By Atlantic Council Turkey Program

The sixth issue of the Defense Journal by Atlantic Council Turkey Program, takes up several of the regional, military-technical, and policy issues in US-Turkish relations.

Conflict Europe & Eurasia

MENASource

Feb 20, 2026

Syria is not Libya, but it could become one if the world looks away

By Kurt Davis Jr.

There are lessons from Libya's fragmentation and collapse that can be applied now as Syria sits at a similar inflection point.

Conflict Libya

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 12, 2026

A year into its post-Assad era, Syria needs a ‘rules-first’ reset

By Ibrahim Al-Assil

In Syria, relief coexists with unease about what comes next. How can Ahmed al-Sharaa restore a state devastated by a quarter century of authoritarianism, corruption, and civil war? Building a government and economy that work for all Syrians is the only way forward.

Economy & Business Freedom and Prosperity

MENASource

Jan 29, 2026

Why Syria’s government must turn inward in 2026

By Gregory Waters

Necessary domestic reforms include continued security reforms, economic development, and writing a new constitution.

Civil Society Democratic Transitions

MENASource

Jan 28, 2026

Syria’s Kurds could be al-Sharaa’s partners in rebuilding. Why did Damascus assault them instead?

By Amy Austin Holmes

The offensive on Kurdish neighborhoods was the third wave of sectarian violence after the targeting of Druze and Alawites.

Democratic Transitions Middle East

In the News

Jan 24, 2026

Rich Outzen joins TRT World Now to discuss four-day Syria-YPG ceasefire

Conflict Middle East

In the News

Jan 18, 2026

Rich Outzen joins Al Jazeera TV to discuss the situation in Syria

Middle East Security & Defense

MENASource

Jan 13, 2026

Eight questions (and expert answers) on the SDF’s withdrawal from Syria’s Aleppo

By Atlantic Council experts

Our experts unpack why violence erupted, what it means for Kurdish safety and integration in Syria, and how Washington is engaging.

Civil Society Conflict

Experts

Events