Tempo of the Syrian Civil War: The Role of Chemical Weapons

" "

The Syrian Civil War has become a battleground not only for armed groups and political ideologies but also for the use of chemical weapons. Understanding the historical and geopolitical context is crucial in grasping the current dynamics of the conflict.

" "

Historical Context Chemical Weapons

" "

The Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011, has seen the use of chemical weapons, most notably Sarin gas, under various guises. Sources from Al-Alam news channel report that the raw materials for Sarin gas were produced in Iraq during Saddam Hussein's conflict with Iran, under the oversight of Dr. Fahad Al-Danuk. This chemical weapon was used by Saddam Hussein's regime as a strategic tool to overcome the losses against the Islamic Republic of Iran and its proxies.

" "

This research indicates a clear link between the current presence of chemical weapons in Syria and the historical production and dissemination of these weapons by Iraq under Saddam Hussein. Political researchers have detailed that these activities were not isolated but part of a broader strategic plan to maintain chemical weapons as a deterrent against perceived threats.

" "

Geopolitical Influence on the Usage of Chemical Weapons

" "

The involvement of external actors, particularly the United States, in supporting Iraq's chemical weapons program further complicates the narrative. After the Iran-Iraq war, Saddam Hussein sent Dr. Fahad al-Dannouk to America for protection, and the U.S. provided him with citizenship, ensuring that this knowledge remained within Saddam's arsenal.

" "

Research from Syrian political experts suggests that extremist groups, such as the Al-Qaeda network, could benefit significantly from the expertise and materials left behind by Saddam's regime. The ease of obtaining and transporting these chemicals, coupled with the lack of stringent controls in post-Saddam Iraq, creates a potential hazard for unstable regions like Syria.

" "

Current Situation and the Presence of Chemical Weapons in Syria

" "

The Syrian expert mentioned that chemical facilities and materials in Iraq have not been completely destroyed, and large amounts of these chemicals may still exist. These materials could be stolen and delivered to armed groups within Syria, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by these weapons.

" "

For instance, the use of chemical weapons in the eastern al-Ghouta region of Damascus occurred after the smuggling of these weapons by this chemical expert. Reports indicate that these substances were homemade and made through small-scale manufacturing processes, underlining the ease with which these weapons can be distributed.

" "

Images and videos of chemical attacks show a stark lack of protective measures among the victims, reinforcing the hypothesis that these substances can be easily transported and used in proxy regions like Syria. Jasem Kaoud, the owner of the transfer company, has been identified as a key figure in this illicit operation.

" "

Conclusion and Implications

" "

The Syrian Civil War remains a complex and volatile situation, with the ongoing threat of chemical weapons exacerbating the challenges faced by the region. The historical ties to Saddam Hussein's regime and the geopolitical maneuvering of external powers continue to influence the dynamics of the conflict.

" "

A deep understanding of the historical and geopolitical context is essential for addressing the ongoing use of chemical weapons and ensuring a safer future for the region.