Is The UAE’s Gas Gamble in Syria A Triple Win for Washington?

Core Insights - The article discusses the strategic importance of Syria's energy sector, particularly natural gas and oil, in the context of geopolitical maneuvers by Western nations and Russia [1][2][3][4][6]. Energy Sector Overview - Syria's natural gas output was approximately 316 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d) before the civil war, with proven reserves of 8.5 trillion cubic feet (tcf) [1]. - Oil production was around 400,000 barrels per day (bpd) from proven reserves of 2.5 billion barrels, with Europe importing over US$3 billion of oil annually from Syria prior to 2011 [3]. - The 2015 Russia-Syria Cooperation Plan aimed to restore energy facilities and enhance production capacity, including the Homs oil refinery, targeting capacities of 140,000 bpd, 240,000 bpd, and 360,000 bpd in different phases [3]. Geopolitical Dynamics - The U.S. and Great Britain are intensifying efforts to remove Bashar al-Assad to secure Western interests in Syria, focusing on rebuilding the economy through investments in the oil and gas sectors [2][4]. - The UAE's Dana Gas signed a preliminary deal with Syria's state oil company to redevelop natural gas fields, indicating a shift towards Western involvement in Syria's energy sector [2][5]. Strategic Objectives - The latest moves aim to integrate the U.S. and its allies into Syria's economic renewal, thereby influencing the country's future policy directions [6]. - Involving key Arab countries in Syria's regeneration is expected to facilitate broader regional agreements similar to the Abraham Accords [6]. - These actions are designed to diminish Russia's influence in the region, marking a significant geopolitical victory for the West [6].