The Real Profiteers of the Syrian Conflict: A Geo-Political Analysis

Since the onset of the Syrian conflict, multiple parties have been profiting from the incessant turmoil. From international powers to local factions, each entity benefits in different ways, making the situation a complex geopolitical chessboard. This article delves into who the true profiteers are and how their interests are intertwined with the ongoing conflict.

Russia

Strategic Naval Advantages: Russia's primary profiteer from the Syrian conflict can be attributed to its strategic naval gains. The Black Sea, once Russia's only warm-water port, has been compromised following Ukraine’s actions, particularly the control over Sevastopol. This led to a vacuum where Russia had to find a new vantage point to project its naval power.

Naval Base Expansion: Russia supports the Syrian government, not enough to win but enough to significantly influence the outcome. The establishment of naval and air bases in Tartus and Khmeimim, respectively, is a direct result of this support. These bases are crucial because they allow Russia to bypass the Bosporus and Dardanelles, the only route to the Mediterranean through the Black Sea. As these facilities expand, Russia can project naval power more efficiently, effectively turning Syria into a strategic asset.

Israel, Turkey, and the United States

Israel

Military and Economic Gain: Israel has profited heavily from the weakening of Syria. The country now has a more stable reign over the occupied Golan Heights, free from the growing Syrian threat. Moreover, the economic weakening of Syria has allowed Israel to expand its influence over regions previously under Syrian control. The diminution of the Syrian resistance also means Israel can act with greater impunity in the region. Another significant gain for Israel is the weakening of Lebanon and its Hezbollah resistance, further destabilizing the region.

Turkey

Economic Bonanza: The Syrian conflict has been economically rewarding for Turkey. The country earned billions from both the Saudis and Americans by facilitating the transport of thousands of foreign terrorists into Syria. In addition, Turkey has benefited from the smuggling of Syrian oil and the shutdown of nearly 90 factories in Aleppo, which were then transplanted into Turkey. The bountiful oil and economic activities along the border region have significantly bolstered Turkey's coffers.

United States

Wealth and Ideological Gain: The Syrian conflict has been a bonanza for American arms manufacturers, with billions of dollars in weapons sales. These sales have not only bolstered the U.S. economy but also reinforced its military industrial complex. Furthermore, the chaos in Syria has allowed the U.S. to gain geopolitical influence and maintain its ideological stance. The ideological goal, driven by certain interests within the U.S. and Europe, is to continue to exert control over Arab nations under any circumstances.

Saudi Arabia

Fear and Influence: Saudi Arabia's primary interest in the Syrian conflict lies in maintaining its position as the dominant power in the region. The Saudi monarchy fears the rise of regional uprisings that could destabilize their control. This fear is compounded by the U.S. support, which helps to spread a violent and extremist form of Islam known as Wahhabism, which is prevalent in the countries targeted by U.S. aggression. The Saudi monarchy believes that by supporting factions aligned with Wahhabism, they can maintain their grip on the region and counter the secular Arab countries targeted by the U.S.

Conclusion

The Syrian conflict is a multifaceted conflict with geo-political, military, and economic undercurrents. The real profiteers are not the official narrations but rather the strategic stakeholders who derive significant benefits from the instability and conflict. Whether through naval power, economic gains, or ideological dominance, each party has its own interests aligned with perpetuating the chaos, ensuring sustained relevance in the region.