Qatar is poised to provide financial support to bolster the salaries of public sector workers in Syria, following the recent establishment of a new government in Damascus. This initiative comes after a significant shift in power on December 8, when Syrian rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), ousted Bashar al-Assad. With the backing of a new U.S. sanctions exemption, this assistance aims to stabilize the newly formed government and improve the economic situation in the war-torn country.
Details of the Financial Support
According to U.S. officials and diplomats, discussions are underway for Qatar to finance a substantial increase in public sector wages. The new Syrian administration has promised a staggering 400% salary increase for its workers, which translates to a total monthly expenditure of approximately $120 million for over 1.25 million employees. The Qatari foreign ministry has not yet commented on the discussions, but sources indicate that neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia, may join in providing support.
Sanctions Exemption Paves the Way
Qatar’s involvement became possible due to a U.S. sanctions exemption granted on Monday, which permits transactions with Syrian government institutions for six months. This exemption represents a significant shift in U.S. policy and reflects a broader strategy to support the new Syrian rulers as they attempt to stabilize the nation and establish an inclusive political process.
Regional Dynamics and International Support
The HTS-led administration has actively sought to engage with other Arab states and international powers, signaling its desire to create a more moderate political landscape in Syria. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani recently visited several Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, as part of efforts to foster diplomatic relations and secure foreign aid.
While HTS has previously been designated a terrorist organization by the U.S., it has distanced itself from its past ties to Al Qaeda and has adopted a more conciliatory approach in recent years. This shift has allowed the group to gain traction and support from regional powers that were once wary of its Islamist roots.
Conclusion
Qatar’s plans to assist the new Syrian government with public sector salary increases mark a significant development in the region. As the new administration seeks to establish itself and rebuild the war-torn nation, financial support from Qatar and other Arab states could prove crucial. The coming months will be critical as the U.S. navigates its relationship with Syria under this new regime and as international stakeholders weigh their support for the fledgling government.
