The game is up in Damascus. Syria’s newly elected parliament has been sealed. The UK Foreign Office says it’s a sham. A rubber stamp for Assad. Whitehall sources tell me the vote was a foregone conclusion. The real power plays are elsewhere.
Back in London, the Foreign Office is rattled. They see Assad’s move as a ploy. A bid to legitimise his grip. But the diplomatic cables are clear. There’s no recognition coming from this corner. "Stain on democracy" is the phrase of the day. I heard it from three different officials. It’s the approved line.
But let’s talk about the realpolitik. The parliament is sealed. That means no debate. No dissent. Just a loyal choir. Assad knows how to play the game. He’s seen his father do it. The Ba’ath party machine grinds on. But the West? They’re stuck. Sanctions are in place. No one is shaking his hand. Yet the conflict grinds on. Millions displaced. No end in sight.
What’s really happening? I’m told the UK is pushing for a new UN resolution. But Russia will veto it. They always do. The game of thrones continues. Meanwhile, the Syrian pound is in freefall. People are desperate. The parliament sealing is a distraction. A piece of theatre.
My sources in the lobby say the Foreign Office is briefing that this changes nothing. But off the record, they worry. It sets a precedent. Other dictators might copy it. Democracy’s brand is being tarnished. That’s the real stain.
So what’s next? The UK will ramp up rhetoric. But don’t expect action. No boots on the ground. No no-fly zone. Just statements. And more sanctions. The game is about optics. Assad wins on the ground. The UK wins in the press. Everyone loses in Syria.
