The Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC) held a workshop titled “The Extension of Israeli Occupation Aggression into Lebanon and Proxy Wars Driven by Iranian Influence and Their Implications for Syria.” The event brought together representatives from national political parties, movements, research centers, and think tanks.
Attendees discussed several key topics, including the potential to diminish Iran’s influence and control over Syria, reduce its harm to the Syrian Revolution, and explore opportunities arising from these events that may help fulfill the Syrian people’s aspirations for freedom, dignity, and democracy. They also examined the possibility of the Assad regime’s downfall, changes in its behavior, or a genuine engagement in the UN-sponsored political process, as well as the roles of regional and international actors moving forward.
Ahmed Tomeh, a SOC member, highlighted the workshop’s significance, emphasizing the SOC’s commitment to expanding participation in national decision-making amid regional developments affecting Syria.
Tomeh noted that the workshop revealed differing perspectives among participants. Some believed the ongoing conflict in Lebanon signals the beginning of an effort to eliminate Iran’s influence in the region, potentially extending into Syria and marking a shift in the Middle East. Others argued the conflict is part of the ongoing dynamic between Iran and the U.S., viewing it as an American effort to reduce, but not eradicate, Iran’s regional influence.
Tomeh also mentioned that some participants expect the upcoming U.S. elections to provide more clarity on the situation. He expressed optimism, stating that for the Syrian Revolution, the opportunities presented by reducing Iranian influence may outweigh the risks, with potential positive impacts on both political and military fronts.
Tomeh thanked the workshop participants, underscoring that such sessions enrich ideas and help decision-makers understand the events in-depth, shaping positions aligned with the Syrian people’s demands for freedom, social justice, and democracy.
Civil society activist Aya Qawaf, who participated in the workshop, stressed the importance of these engagements between the SOC and political forces. She said they represent a starting point to strengthen collaborative efforts, embrace diverse opinions, and encourage constructive criticism, establishing impactful work for Syria’s revolution and the nation.
Abbas Sharifa, a researcher at the Candle Center for Studies, noted that the conflict is in a phase of escalation, with indicators pointing to its continuation and potential expansion with increased violence. He suggested that a power vacuum could emerge if Iranian influence declines.
Sharifa emphasized that a key question remains: who will fill this vacuum amid regional confrontations, especially with international and regional military forces present in Syria? He also pointed to speculations about potential Israeli occupation advances in southern Syria to establish a security zone, and the possibility of a political transition.
Omar Shahrour, leader of the Syrian Justice and Development Party, stated that weakening Iranian influence and Hezbollah’s terrorist militia would benefit the Syrian people. However, he also cautioned against downplaying the threat posed by the Israeli occupation’s expansionist project.
Political researcher Wael Alwan emphasized the workshop’s importance, noting the SOC’s interest in hearing insights from research centers and political entities. He added that the swift and complex developments around Syria would impact all local and international stakeholders involved in Syria.
Alwan noted the SOC’s efforts to examine scenarios, explore potential opportunities, and assess how these rapid changes might create advantages for the Syrian people.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)
