Dr Loqman Radpey (Kurdistani)*, a lecturer and researcher in international law, wrote a scathing analysis of the US decision to lift sanctions on Syria, questioning the reliability of the country’s new government and its implications for regional stability. In his article for The Washington Times, he described the move as “outright irresponsible and reckless”, and expressed concern that it would empower a government that has failed to demonstrate any commitment to meaningful reform.
Despite its change in leadership, he highlights that the Syrian government remains fundamentally untrustworthy. Dr Radpey argues:
“Lifting these sanctions without conditions for reform or accountability is effectively granting a free pass to a government that has shown no willingness to engage in necessary political reforms. Instead of serving the people, the new government has continued to use repression and violence as the primary means of maintaining control.”
This, Dr Radpey asserts, undermines the potential for peace and stability in the country. He also criticises the international community for failing to hold the Syrian government accountable for its human rights violations and its treatment of various ethnic and political groups. “The regime continues to deny basic rights to its citizens, and yet the international community appears ready to reward it for its intransigence,” he says. “By lifting sanctions, the US is effectively legitimising a government that has systematically oppressed its people and failed to uphold international law.”
Rather than supporting the Syrian government, Dr Radpey argues that the Kurdish forces in Syria should receive greater backing, as they have shown a stronger commitment to democratic values and regional stability.
“The Kurdish forces in Syria are the most reliable partners in the region when it comes to fostering stability and peace,” he asserts. “They have shown unwavering dedication to building a democratic, inclusive Syria, in stark contrast to the authoritarian regime that seeks to dominate the country.”
Dr Radpey also warns that the US decision to lift sanctions without holding the Syrian government to account sets a dangerous precedent. “This decision sends a message to authoritarian regimes around the world that they can continue to violate international law and human rights with impunity. It is not only a setback for Syria, but also a blow to global efforts to promote justice and human rights.”
Finally, Dr Radpey urges the US to reconsider its stance and support those forces in Syria that genuinely seek peace and democracy. “The US should support the Kurdish forces and other democratic groups that have shown a commitment to peace,” he concludes. “Lifting sanctions without real change from the Syrian government will only delay the prospect of lasting peace in the country.”
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*Loqman Radpey (Loqman Kurdistani), an expert on Kurdistan and the Middle East, is a fellow at the Middle East Forum. He writes extensively on Kurdistan and statehood, self-determination and the Kurds, and the ‘Social Contract’.
