Syria after Haffez Al-Assad(Dtd. 14th May,2000)
The death of Haffez Al-Assad, the Syrian President marks the end
of an era which saw Syria making great progress in all fields under
his charismatic leadership. But it is expected that his death may
speed up the peace talks with Israel. The Late President was a
tough negotiator and adamant about return of Golan heights to
Syria. He never agreed to concede even an inch of Golan territory
to Israel leading to a deadlock in talks with Israel. The appointment
of his son Bashar Al-Assad is expected to change the situation. The
late President drafted his younger son in politics after accidental
death of his eldest son whom he had groomed as his successor. He
planned Bashar's accession meticulously and destroyed potential
trouble makers including his brother who was forced to go to exile.
The succession was swift with the Baath Party nominating him for
the post and the Army, a major player in Syria subsequently
pledged its support to Bashar Al-Assad. The careful projection of
young Assad has made him acceptable to the masses who see his
father as a dynamic man. The Israeli negotiators are hoping that the
young leader would bring some flexibility in Syria's stand.
Agreement between Israel and Syria is almost clinched and
differences are only on a small piece of territory. If the young leader
agrees to sign agreement with Israel, he would instantly become a
world leader and statesman. The US president Clinton is keen to
get the treaty signed between the two countries before he
relinquishes his office.
But the new President requires time to consolidate his hold over the
government machinery and should not be rushed in to any
agreement. If it is seen as capitulating to Israel, it might get opposed
by vested interest in Syria. Therefore any such commitment
requires full authority and support of parliament and army which
would take some time. He also has to deal with Egypt, a traditional
competitor for leadership in the region and Lebanon, a country
which his father kept under his control. The middle east is expected
to see much significant change in near future and Syria requires
astute leadership to remain a major player in the region.
The late President was known for his ruthless style in eliminating
opposition and much would depend on the son's ability to follow
his policies. If he falters however, his estranged uncle is waiting in
the wings and that would bring turmoil to the country. As of now
the army, the parliament and people at large are solidly behind the
President- designate. This strong support would act as a boost for
the new President who is expected to make Syria a world player.
