PIJ arrests in Syria highlight regional realignment: NYT

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: The New York Times
23 Apr 2025 13:24

The detention of senior Palestinian officials in Syria marks a notable shift in the country's foreign policy direction, as Damascus aims to reshape its and seek relief from US sanctions.

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Syrian government forces are deployed amid heightened security in Damascus, Syria, Friday, March 7, 2025 (AP)

Syrian authorities have made a rare move by arresting two senior members of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) movement, signaling significant shifting alliances in the Middle East, The New York Times reported.

The newspaper indicated the arrests reflect Syria’s evolving stance under its new leadership, which appears to be distancing itself from Iran.

Palestinian officials detained 'without any explanation'

The PIJ confirmed on Tuesday that its leader in Syria, Khaled Khaled, and senior official Yasser al-Zafari, have been in Syrian custody for five days. Syria’s Interior Ministry confirmed the detentions but did not disclose the reasons.

The Palestinian group criticized the arrests, stating that its officials were detained “without any explanation” and “in a manner we would not have hoped to see from brothers.”

Historically, Syria under President Bashar al-Assad provided operational support for several Palestinian armed factions, including the PIJ. However, since al-Assad was overthrown by armed forces in December, Syria’s new government in Damascus has moved to reassert control and reduce foreign influence.

NYT mentioned that the arrests of senior Palestinian figures mark a notable shift in Syria's foreign policy direction, as the new rulers aim to reshape the country's alliances and regain full authority over armed groups operating within its borders.

Arrests coincided with Republican congressmen visit to Damascus

The report noted that the US has issued conditions for easing its sanctions on Syria, requiring the new government to crack down on extremist groups.

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, who led the coalition that toppled al-Assad, has been seeking relief from these sanctions, which continue to hamper economic recovery and postwar reconstruction.

Following al-Assad’s departure, al-Sharaa quickly requested that the US begin lifting sanctions. While some restrictions on humanitarian aid have been relaxed, most measures remain firmly in place.

The arrests coincided with a visit by Republican congressmen to Damascus, marking the first such visit in many years.

The NYT suggested that the visit highlights a growing interest from the Republicans in Syria's evolving political landscape and suggests increased diplomatic engagement.