Syria has signaled that it is ready to 'reconsider' its relations with Iran, French officials told the a-Sharq al-Awset daily in a report published on Thursday. | The problem with Pencilneck as that, even though he can be turned, he's liable to continue turning right around, 360 degrees. |
One of the main points of contention is the situation in Iraq. According to the French sources, Damascus opposes the idea of a Muslim Iraq standing under full Iranian influence.
Also threatening the states' relationship are the bubbling tensions in Lebanon. Syria does not feel that it is in its interest to get involved in the crisis there, now that it is buffing its ties with western states.
It also does not want to strengthen the Lebanon-based Hezbollah militant group to a point in which it could stand on its own, the officials said.
Syria is also concerned that its recent renewal of negotiations with Jerusalem will turn it hostage to any conflict between Israel and Iran.
As such, Syria is turning to the alternative option of strengthening its ties with the west and negotiating with Israel, the officials said.
Damascus is also prepared to sign an agreement of association with the European Union, the sources said. Should the EU approve the move, it will be the first fruit of developments between the bodies.