"Akhbar al-Yawm" agency

Arab, Western Interest in Syria Driven by Investment... Not al-Sharaa

Diplomatic reports warn of Syria unrest, Lebanon impact

English version based on the Arabic-language article published by Akhbar al-Yawm

Syria has re-emerged as a focus of international attention after years of crippling sanctions, driven largely by interest in potential investment opportunities rather than political support for President Ahmad al-Sharaa, a senior political source said.

The source, speaking to the "Akhbar al-Yawm" agency, said that the recent diplomatic engagement with Damascus by Arab and Western states is motivated by Syria’s untapped economic potential and natural resources.

"What's happening is not out of admiration for the Syrian president. All eyes are on the exceptional investment opportunities", the source said.

However, the source warned that Syria has not fully regained stability, citing the country's history of political upheaval.

"Despite the current support, Syria remains vulnerable to internal shocks. Its past is marked by repeated coups", the source said, adding that recent diplomatic assessments point to the risk of significant security disturbances in the country.

Such developments could have repercussions for Lebanon, especially along the border. The source noted that previous instability in Syria, regardless of whether it favored or opposed the regime, has often triggered waves of displacement into Lebanon.

The reports also highlight concerns over the ideological orientation of the current Syrian leadership, which the source said has origins "to some extent" in the Muslim Brotherhood, an affiliation that remains controversial in parts of the Arab world.

To mitigate the risks of spillover, the source called for Lebanese political unity, strengthened ties with Arab states, and sustained dialogue with Saudi Arabia.

"The Arab fold is Lebanon’s bridge to the wider regional and international community", the source said, adding: "And it is clear that Riyadh has influence in Washington".