In brief
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are delicately navigating the shifting political landscape in Syria, following the recent overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime. The potential rise of Islamist groups in the region is prompting these Gulf powers to adopt a careful stance.
With Iran's influence in retreat after Assad's downfall, Saudi Arabia and the U.A.E. see a chance to forge new connections with Syria's emerging government. However, their approach is filled with caution due to the ascendance of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a key rebel faction with historical ties to Al Qaeda. For over twenty years, both nations have actively opposed the proliferation of politically driven Islamist groups, including Al Qaeda and the Islamic State. Their officials have emphasized that Syria's new leaders must showcase a commitment to inclusivity and respect for the country's varied sectarian makeup, if they wish to gain political and financial backing from the Gulf states. Recent comments from Anwar Gargash, a diplomatic advisor to the Emirati president, highlighted the unease regarding the rebel factions' past affiliations, underscoring the need for caution in navigating Syria's complex and evolving political landscape.
