Qatar warns against military solutions in Syria

Qatar on Tuesday issued a warning that military action would not resolve the ongoing crisis in Syria, following a rapid offensive by rebel forces that resulted in the capture of Aleppo and surrounding areas.

"A political solution is the only way to end the suffering of the Syrian people," said Majed Al-Ansari, spokesperson for Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during a press briefing. "We emphasize the need to spare civilians from the consequences of this military escalation. We call on all parties to de-escalate immediately and stress the importance of ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid," he added.

Qatar has maintained its opposition to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and has consistently refused to normalize relations with Damascus, despite the recent rapprochement between other regional countries and Syria.

Doha, along with several Arab nations, severed ties with Syria in 2011 after Assad's regime violently suppressed a popular uprising. The crackdown escalated into a conflict that has claimed over 500,000 lives, displaced millions, and drawn in various foreign powers.

Al-Ansari underscored Qatar’s commitment to supporting efforts that prioritize humanitarian access and the protection of civilians in Syria. "The international community must work together to alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people and ensure aid reaches those in need," he urged.

Regional Divisions Over Syria

While some Arab states, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have moved to re-engage with Assad's government, Qatar remains steadfast in its position against normalization. This highlights the ongoing divisions within the Arab world over how to address the decade-long conflict in Syria.

As the situation in Syria continues to evolve, Qatar's call for a political resolution underscores the challenges of achieving peace in a country devastated by years of war and geopolitical rivalry.