Evolution Of Relationship Between Syria And US After The Cold War

The relation between US and Syria is a special case in the international relations of the Middle East, which directly influences the development of Syria-Israel relations and Lebanon-Israel relations.After the Second World War, Syria-US relations generally experienced two stages. During the Cold War, because of US-Soviet confrontation, the US took Syria as a puppet of the Soviet Union in the Middle East and took measures to contain Syria. In order to confront to the United States and achieve the strategic balance, Syria insisted on an independent foreign policy by seeking an alliance with the Soviet Union. After the end of Cold War, Syria and the United States were hostile to each other. To America, containment of Syria, was not only achieved its strategic ally Israel's security interests, but also established its hegemony in the Middle East. As the facilitator of Syria-Israel peace negotiations, the United States dominated the pattern of changes in the region. On the other hand, in view of changes in the international situation, Syria became so increasingly isolated that it had to restore and keep normal diplomatic relations with the United States. When regarding its nation and security interests, Syria had no choice but to confront the policies of the United States. Therefore, the Syria-US relations have been still in confrontation and disputations.To some extent, Syria-US relations depend on the implementation of the policies of the United States in the Middle East. The United States pursued different strategic interests in different periods and adjusted its Middle East policies. The adjustment of its policies has a major impact on the Syria-US relations. Due to the requirements of strategic interests, the two countries have also experienced a short period of cooperation. Despite the existence of cooperation between them, Syria-US relations are still in situations of confrontations. Divergences between their strategic interests are the mainstream of bilateral relations. Especially after George Walker Bush took office, regarding counter-terrorism, counter-proliferation, situations in Lebanon and other fundamental differences on the issue, Syria-US relations have deteriorated.