A Russian - Iran Split On Syria?

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, met with Iran's President Hassan Rouhani on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in September. PHOTO: MIKHAIL KLIMENTYEV/KREMLIN/REUTERS

Wall Street Journal: U.S. Eyes Russia-Iran Split in Bid to End Syria Conflict

Washington’s Middle East allies aim to coax Putin to support limits on Tehran-backed Assad’s time in power.

WASHINGTON—The Obama administration and European and Arab allies are seeking to peel Russia away from its alliance with Iran, a partnership that has bolstered Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, said senior diplomats involved in efforts to end Syria’s lengthy conflict.

The efforts, which have unfolded quietly through meetings involving Russian President Vladimir Putin and Middle Eastern leaders, are meant to coax support from Moscow for a limit on Mr. Assad’s time in power. Such a step would solidify an emerging international coalition and help clear the way for a more concerted military effort to counter Islamic State in Syria and Iraq.

Iran is seen as a brake on those efforts because of its more staunchly pro-Assad position, which it wants the Kremlin to support. If Russia holds fast to Iran and Mr. Assad, it would undermine hopes for an international consensus.

WNU Editor: This is what I call wishful thinking coming from Washington. There are many differences between Russia and Syria .... but on the issue of Syria they are on the same page. The survival of the Assad regime, and containing the rebellion. My prediction .... in the short term both Russia and Iran will try to create conditions on the ground so that Assad can survive, and that future peace talks will be in his favour. But if this conflict continues and conditions on the ground do not change in favour of the Assad regime.... a new strategy will be formulated .... but until then .... the war continues.