In Damascus, Syrian Vice President Abdel Halim Khaddam addressed reporters regarding the American initiative, stating, “This initiative reminds us of the situation that preceded World War I, when the major powers at that time sought to divide and control the region.” He further added, “The problem lies in their approach of presenting an initiative to combat violence. They believe that the violence in the region is solely attributed to the factors mentioned in their initiative, while disregarding the actions of Israel.”
Khaddam continued, “No one can impose their will upon the Arabs. Dreams and development are essential and ongoing needs for both Arabs and non-Arabs. Life cannot remain stagnant, as inertia can prove fatal. Therefore, the Arabs make their own choices, and we do not impose choices upon them.”
He further expressed, “The issue is that they propose an initiative to address violence, solely attributing the region’s violence to the factors outlined in their initiative, while neglecting to acknowledge Israel’s actions.”
When the American “Greater Middle East” initiative for democratic reform in the Arab world, Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan was published in the United States about two weeks ago, Arab countries expressed reservations due to the lack of prior consultation with them.
