Dr Rebwar Fatah

Qatar's strategy in Syria is multifaceted, driven by its regional ambitions and ideological leanings. Here are the key components:

Promoting Islamist Groups: Qatar has historically supported Islamist groups, including factions within the Syrian National Army (SNA) and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), to promote a governance model aligned with its ideological preferences. This support includes financial aid, weapons, and other resources as part of its broader strategy to balance regional alliances and maintain its influence in the Middle East. The exact amount of financial support is not publicly disclosed, but it is well-documented that Qatar has been a significant supporter of various Islamist factions in Syria.

Mediation and Diplomacy: Qatar has positioned itself as a mediator in the Syrian conflict, engaging with different Islamist factions and regional powers. This diplomatic role allows Qatar to influence the political landscape and promote its interests by:

Building Alliances: Forging strategic alliances with influential groups and regional actors.

Promoting Political Islam: Helping place Islamic factions in positions of power, aligning with its broader ideological goals.

Enhancing Influence: Using mediation and diplomacy to bolster its influence and reputation as a key player in regional politics.

This approach has allowed Qatar to exert considerable influence in the Syrian conflict and other regional issues, despite its relatively small size compared to other regional powers.

Balancing Regional Influence: Qatar's involvement in Syria is also driven by its desire to counter the influence of other regional players, such as Iran and Russia, who support the Assad regime. By supporting opposition groups, Qatar aims to prevent these actors from consolidating power.

Post-Assad Strategy: Qatar has been active in mediating conflicts and supporting transitions in various regions. The Foreign Ministry has called for the preservation of national institutions and unity in Syria, urging all parties to engage in dialogue. Qatar's foreign policy involves supporting various Islamist groups, particularly during the Arab Spring and in conflict zones like Syria and Libya. This support aligns with Qatar's broader strategy of promoting political Islam and increasing its influence. For example, Qatar has played a significant role in mediating conflicts and supporting peace processes, such as in Afghanistan with the Taliban.

Qatar's Position on the Kurds and SDF: Qatar's strategy in Syria has primarily involved supporting various Islamist groups rather than the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) or Kurdish people. This support has had significant implications for the SDF, which has been a key player in the fight against ISIS and in maintaining control over parts of northern and eastern Syria. Qatar's backing of Islamist factions aligns with its broader regional strategy and has contributed to the complex dynamics on the ground, impacting the balance of power and the ongoing conflict.

Conclusion Qatar's strategy in Syria is complex, involving support for opposition groups, promotion of Islamist factions, and engagement in diplomatic efforts to shape the future political landscape. By balancing regional influences and promoting its ideological preferences, Qatar aims to maintain its influence and ensure a favorable outcome in the Syrian conflict.