Jordan T. LaPlante

 The purpose of this presentation is to examine the current policies of the United States toward the Syrian Arab Republic, and the impact of the Syrian relationship with the Islamic Republic of Iran.  Syrian-Iranian relationship is dangerous to American interests in the Middle East  Both Syria and the United States have a lot to gain by normalizing relations

 Syria and Iran have become economic, diplomatic, and military allies  Often compared to a “marriage of convenience”  2006 mutual defense pact  Share mutual enemies and support for Palestinian movements

 Unlikely duo: Persian vs Arab/ Secular vs revolutionary Islam  For Iran: Strategic ally, more control over Hezbollah, comparable security concerns  For Syria: Diplomatic role Syria took on between Iran and Arab states, enemies with Israel, Hezbollah

 Yes, there is evidence that Iran and Syria are both trying to acquire nuclear weapons, and that Iran may be helping Syria  Yes, both are state sponsors of terrorism. Iran funds Hezbollah through Syria and both have substantial influence over the organization

 Normalize relations with Syria through diplomatic missions. This will allow a new partner in the Middle East and help isolate Tehran  Force Syria to denounce terrorism, and get Syria to help broker a deal to end Hezbollah's armed struggled. In exchange economic rewards and US agreement to stop blocking their entrance into the WTO  Use Syria against Iran to help stop their nuclear program, one less ally for Tehran makes our position stronger