First reaction from US Congress disapproving Türkiye’s normalization efforts with Syria

US Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) on Friday, expressed strong disapproval of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s request to meet with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in order to normalize ties with his once sworn enemy.

I am deeply disappointed that Pres @RTErdogan of Türkiye has publicly asked to meet war criminal Assad. Normalizing with war criminal Assad is normalizing with death itself. This is another reason why the Senate must act soon and pass my Assad Regime Anti Normalization Act.

— Joe Wilson (@RepJoeWilson) July 12, 2024

Wilson’s statement reflects growing concerns within the US Congress regarding any potential normalization of relations with Assad, whom they regard as a war criminal responsible for numerous atrocities during the Syrian Civil War. This reaction highlights the geopolitical complexities and the contentious nature of re-engaging with the Assad regime.

Erdogan’s invitation to Assad

During a press conference following a NATO summit, President Erdogan discussed the potential normalization of relations with Syria, confirming that an invitation had been extended to Assad. He indicated that Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is leading the discussions and developing a roadmap for this diplomatic initiative.

“We think that a fair peace is possible in Syria. We have always stated that Syria’s territorial integrity is also in our interest. A fair peace to be built in Syria will benefit us the most. We say that the most important step in this reconstruction process is to start a new era with Syria,” Erdogan remarked. He emphasized the importance of support from the United States and Iran to advance these positive developments and to alleviate the suffering experienced during the conflict.

Russia’s endorsement

Mariya Zakharova, the spokesperson for Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscored the importance of normalization between Türkiye and Syria for achieving a comprehensive solution and enhancing regional security. In a press briefing in Moscow, Zakharova stated, “We welcome the signals coming from Türkiye, including from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, indicating readiness for normalization with Syria. We encourage our partners to maintain these contacts in every possible way.”

Zakharova also highlighted the Astana format as the only effective international mechanism for developing a peaceful solution in Syria. She expressed confidence in Türkiye and Syria taking practical steps toward normalization and emphasized Russia’s commitment to close cooperation with Turkish partners within the Astana framework.

“We see the potential for constructive roles in mediation efforts from other countries in the region that desire peace and stability,” Zakharova added.

Implications and future steps

The potential normalization of relations between Türkiye and Syria comes amid broader geopolitical considerations, with significant implications for regional stability and the ongoing conflict in Syria. The international community, particularly stakeholders like the United States and Iran, will play crucial roles in supporting or contesting these developments.