Syria´s moves

In the end, it might not result. But the UN´s determination in moving ahead with the Syrian political talks in Geneva most be commended. Every interested party, from the country and from the outside world, with the exception of the Islamic State and Al-Nusra Front terrorists, has to be faced with the reality: it is time to find a political solution to the long lasting crisis. They better sit around the table or in the rooms next door and be part of the solution.

It will not be easy. But it is the only way forward.

It should however be accompanied by an intensification of the campaigns against the two terrorist organisations mentioned above. That new degree of intensity can only be achieved through the action of Special Forces. As the Geneva process takes off the ground, the background discussions about the use and the role of such forces should take place elsewhere and under the co-leadership of the US and Russia. The UN should have no role there. 

The Syrian negotiations should go ahead

The negotiations on Syria are scheduled for next week in Geneva. The formal leadership of the process rests with the UN. And it is in the interest of the UN to have a diverse representation of the factions that are engaged in the conflict, with the exception of the most extreme, such as the so-called Islamic State and the al-Qaeda inspired Jabhat al-Nusra. Everybody else who is prepared to discuss should be around the place. Not necessarily, at the beginning, around the same table, but part of the process for sure.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Russia and other countries are trying to prevent some movements from being invited. We could expect that. It´s consistent with their interests. But it´s up to the UN to say no to that kind of pressure.

There are no saints in the Syria disaster. This is a tragedy of devils. But those among them that believe they can negotiate, give and take, should be in. In these matters you confront and discuss with your enemies, including the worst among them. And you appreciate their willingness to be around. That´s actually the difference between them and the terrorists. A terrorist is a criminal that accepts no room for a compromise.