Assad Proposes New Constitution and Talks with Political Opposition
In a bid to retain power amid the Syrian conflict, President Bashar al-Assad is reportedly engaging in indirect initiatives with Washington and President-elect Donald Trump. Proposals for a new constitution and talks with the opposition indicate his precarious position, potentially reviving the stalled political process and impacting regional dynamics significantly.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
In a significant development in the ongoing Syrian conflict, President Bashar al-Assad is reportedly making a last-ditch effort to maintain power through indirect initiatives with Washington and President-elect Donald Trump. This information comes from sources familiar with the matter, as reported by Bloomberg News.
Key Points:
- Assad is proposing to enact a new constitution and hold talks with the political opposition[2].
- This move is seen as a final attempt by Assad to remain in power[2].
- Some Iraqi armed groups have reportedly returned to their country after the regime relinquished control of Deir ez-Zor[2].
Analysis:
The proposal for a new constitution and talks with the opposition comes at a critical time for Assad's regime. Sergei Markov, a political adviser close to the Kremlin, stated that "Assad is in great danger"[2]. This statement underscores the precarious position of the Syrian government and the urgent need for political maneuvering.
The suggestion of constitutional reform aligns with the ongoing work of the Syrian Constitutional Committee, a UN-backed body tasked with drafting a new constitution or reforming the existing one[1]. However, the committee has faced numerous challenges, including disagreements between government and opposition representatives over its focus and scope.
Implications:
- Political Process: This move could potentially reinvigorate the stalled political process in Syria, which has been overshadowed by military developments in recent years.
- International Involvement: The reported indirect initiatives with Washington suggest an attempt to engage with the incoming U.S. administration, possibly seeking a shift in U.S. policy towards Syria.
- Opposition Response: It remains to be seen how the Syrian opposition will react to this proposal, given the deep distrust and ongoing conflict.
- Regional Dynamics: The reported withdrawal of some Iraqi armed groups from Syria could signal a shift in regional alliances and power dynamics.
As the situation develops, it will be crucial to monitor the responses from various stakeholders, including the Syrian opposition, regional powers, and the international community. The success of any new constitutional process or political talks will largely depend on the willingness of all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue and compromise.
