Qatar has agreed to supply natural gas to Syria through Jordan to alleviate Syria’s electricity shortages, marking a significant shift in regional dynamics. This initiative has received approval from the United States, signaling a notable policy development.
Historically, Qatar was a strong opponent of the former Syrian regime led by Bashar al-Assad and a staunch supporter of opposition forces. This gas deal represents a substantial gesture of support for Syria’s new administration following Assad’s ousting.
The arrangement involves Qatar’s development fund collaborating with Jordan’s energy ministry to deliver natural gas to Syria. The gas will be received at Jordan’s Red Sea port of Aqaba and transported to Syria via the Arab Gas Pipeline, which runs from Aqaba northward into Syrian territory. The initial plan aims to boost the Deir Ali power plant’s output by 400 megawatts per day, with expectations of gradual increases. Given Syria’s current power capacity estimates of around 4,000 megawatts, this enhancement could significantly improve electricity availability in the country.
Syria has been grappling with severe power shortages, with state-supplied electricity available just two to three hours daily in most regions. Previously, Iran supplied the majority of Syria’s oil for power generation, but these deliveries ceased following the change in leadership. The interim government has committed to addressing the power crisis by importing electricity from Jordan and exploring alternative solutions, such as deploying floating power barges.
The U.S. approval of this gas deal underscores Washington’s continued engagement in Syrian affairs, even as it adopts a more cautious approach compared to European nations regarding the easing of sanctions.
This development not only highlights Qatar’s proactive role in regional energy diplomacy but also reflects a broader trend of shifting alliances and cooperative efforts to stabilize and rebuild Syria’s infrastructure in the post-Assad era.
