A future of peace between Syria and Israel is possible and desired by the Syrian people, but the new regime consolidating power in Damascus represents a dangerous, extremist threat, Syrian-born businessman Yahya Kirdi asserted in a wide-ranging interview with the The Jerusalem Post.
Kirdi, a Canadian citizen originally from Aleppo who was stripped of his Syrian citizenship by the Assad regime, shared his perspective as a successful international businessman with roots deeply embedded in Syria's complex cultural fabric. The owner of sports clubs and companies involved in sports marketing and petroleum trade, Kirdi, expressed no hesitation in speaking to Israeli media, seeing it as an opportunity to directly convey a message of peace.
"We desire to live peacefully alongside our Jewish neighbors," Kirdi stated, dismissing the notion of inherent Arab hostility towards Israel as "a deception perpetuated by Arab rulers."
Throughout the interview, Kirdi emphasized his firm belief that peace between Syrians and Israelis is attainable. He reassured the audience by stating, "We believe peace is possible and see that the Syrian people are ready for a peace process with Israel." This belief in the Syrian people's readiness for peace instills confidence in the potential for a peaceful resolution.
However, Kirdi offered a scathing critique of Ahmed al-Sharaa's administration, which has taken control in parts of Syria. He labeled it an "extremist Islamic emirate" and characterized its rule as "totalitarian and sectarian." Kirdi's critique of the current regime provides the audience with a clear understanding of the situation in Syria, keeping them informed and aware.
Furthermore, Kirdi condemned the new regime's reliance on non-Syrian, hardline Islamist fighters, citing the presence of militants from Chechnya, Uzbekistan, North Africa, and even elements linked to Hamas and Islamic Jihad. "This is an Islamic jihadist movement with no connection to Syrian identity," he argued passionately. This reliance, he asserted, marginalizes genuine Syrian opposition figures who sacrificed much against Assad and fails utterly to represent the country's rich diversity, which historically included significant Jewish, Christian, Druze, Kurdish, and other communities.
Regarding the fall of Bashar al-Assad, Kirdi attributed it less to popular uprising alone and more to a "convergence of American, Turkish, and Russian interests." He pointed to the surrender of territory without resistance and the significant impact of Israeli military actions against Hezbollah and Iranian-backed militias as crucial factors in the regime's collapse.
Looking toward Syria's future, Kirdi strongly advocates against partition or federalization, warning such moves would only empower extremists and threaten regional security. Instead, he envisions a single Syrian state led by an authority built on modern foundations. His vision calls for a civil, democratic state where business leaders contribute significantly to reconstruction and economic revival, believing economic development is key to stability and popular support. This vision of a democratic Syria offers hope and optimism for the country's future.
Kirdi believes business people, supported by rational politicians, are well-positioned to lead peace initiatives. He argues that their understanding of economic interdependence and their ability to foster prosperity can be instrumental in building trust and cooperation between nations. While he explicitly distanced himself from seeking any role within the current Sharaa administration due to its dictatorial nature, he maintains hope for a future Syria that embraces democracy, respects its diverse population, and pursues coexistence.
"Trust the Syrians, for they are the children of ancient civilizations," Kirdi concluded. "They are not extremists and are open to all cultures of peoples who seek peace."
Photo: The Jerusalem Post