Coalitions, between theory and practice

T

he Saudi step of introducing a new Islamic coalition to fight terrorism has been met by some with surprise.

Theoretically, the move seems an attempt by some Muslim countries to face terrorism, but from a practical point of view, the initiative might increase the political divisions and disputes in the region.

Practically, any plea for a military intervention is complicated. Most countries have no intention to take part in a military intervention on the ground, even under the excuse of combating terrorism.

Furthermore, any military plan needs a strong strategy and full political and military coordination.

In the case of Syria, for example, it is impossible to consider any fighting step without coordination with the Russians, who are the main protagonists on the Syrian scene.

This was confirmed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman who said that any military initiative in Syria or Iraq should be coordinated with the legitimate authority and the international coalition.

Therefore, before the birth of any coalition, it is important to answer basic questions, like, for example, what is the legitimate authority in Syria with which the coalition should coordinate?

It is also important to have a strategy in place that can deal with the complexity of the situation and avoid the obstacles that made previous coalitions ineffective.

The region is passing through a most confusing period. The spread of hatred, division and sectarianism needs a very wise containment policy.

To overcome the current crisis, it is imperative to be aware of the level of risks the region is facing in the long run.

What the region needs today is a new ideological front that faces and overcomes the dangers of sectarian thinking, hostility, violence and extremism.

It needs new alliances that can make constructive fundamental social changes and can remodel the identity of societies, which turned to be central to the generation of extremism and the main exporter of terrorism.

Ultimately, any new coalition should work on bridging the gaps among the opposing parties and terminate the exploitation of religion to serve some people’s designs if it wishes to stop the vicious cycle of violence.

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