Mali and Sudan
The ongoing problems in both Mali and Sudan stem from the control of corrupt military leaders, while civilian authorities are marginalized, often imprisoned or exiled. Despite the presence of wise and rational voices in both countries, the military elites do not heed them to restore peace, security, or a civil political path where the people can decide their own destiny.
The current situation encourages criminals from al-Nusra, ISIS, and al-Qaeda to advance and impose their control. We have seen the destructive actions of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, which is alarming. Again: whoever controls the weapons imposes their rule, and such behavior will lead everyone to disaster-precisely what Washington and Tel Aviv want, as every Arab or Muslim country that falls serves their interests.
The complicity of neighboring countries in Sudan-specifically Egypt-and the direct involvement of the UAE in supporting the criminal Hamidti and his forces worsened the situation. There appears to be no external power capable of resolving this crisis ; the solution must come from within Mali and Sudan. They must understand an important fact: no foreign power seeks their true welfare, and neither Russia, nor America, nor France, nor any regional power will contribute to stability or a legitimate governance solution. They must rely on their internal strengths and wise leaders, or else…
2. Mali’s Internal Struggle
The problem in Mali is longstanding, fueled by the obstinacy of the military wing. The people of northern Mali felt marginalized by national development plans and sought autonomy. The mediating party should have reached a compromise, with concessions from both sides. Bamako should have allowed northern communities to manage their own affairs independently, without compromising territorial unity or political decision-making.
However, major powers interfered, and the Malian military’s will was insincere. Rebel forces allied with each other-including Ansar Eddin and Ansar Al-Sharia and Mourabitoun and A group of Noussrat Islam and Muslims-advanced. Today, Mali suffers from poor relations between the military leaders and its most important neighbor, Algeria, whose interest lies in a stable, secure, and prosperous Mali. Mali’s security is integral to Algeria’s national security.
Contrary to some Arab media claims, Algeria is not internationally isolated. It enjoys a strong reputation among African countries, and its relations with Russia, China, and the United States naturally fluctuate, given these powers’ interests in a sensitive region such as North Africa and the Sahel.
The solution for Mali lies in breaking the stalemate in Bamako. Those in power must reach agreements with all the good forces in Mali to exit the cycle of danger and repel armed groups. Key objectives:
1. Transfer of power to civilians.
2. Justice for the people of northern Mali
3. Libya
In Libya, the division between east and west, along with the proliferation of armed militias, has destroyed Libya’s chances of emerging safely after Gaddafi’s fall. Ironically, some Libyans now regret Gaddafi’s rule and long for his era.
The Libyan National Army (LNA) is loyal to Cyrenaica rather than the Government of National Unity in Tripoli. The division reflects both political interests and ideology. After the popular uprising, there was no consensus on the system of governance to succeed Gaddafi, resulting in a split between east and west. General Haftar claims he came to power to confront extremists in the west and follows a secular orientation.
Externally, the division has harmed Libya’s image, reputation, and interests. Reliance on UN solutions has failed ; the UN has not resolved crises and has been complicit in inaction during international conflicts, as in Gaza. Achieving consensus is difficult given Libya’s strong tribal affiliations. National unity must prevail to save the country , and armed formations such as Brigade 444 in the west, and other militias in the east, must be controlled. Even if Haftar’s army is better organized, widespread arms complicate governance.
Essential goals:
* A unified vision for Libya’s common destiny.
* Maintaining minimal consensus.
* Nationwide elections between east and west, allowing the Libyan people to decide their system of governance and competent leaders free from bias.
4. Syria: Security and Governance Challenges
The October agreement between the Kurdish and Syrian sides is a positive sign. President Al-Sharaa’s pursuit of a security agreement with the Zionist enemy to relieve some pressures on his state is somewhat acceptable. Yet challenges in Syria persist, especially in security.
Not all armed groups have surrendered their weapons to the Ministries of Interior and Defense ; militias still follow certain leaders. Until security stabilizes, there can be no economic revival or development capable of absorbing unemployment and easing financial burdens. Poverty is widespread, and not all regions receive equal attention from the central authority. Transitional justice has not yet held accountable those responsible for massacres on the coast or security violations in Sweida.
President Al-Sharaa has shown strong interest in economic matters, such as lifting Caesar Act sanctions. However, some statements suggesting Syria’s alignment with “Western Crusader-Zionist interests” appear misguided, as if he seeks Western approval at any cost-something that neither honors him nor the Syrian people.
A report by the Syrian Network for Human Rights highlighted risks to civilian protection, showing that Al-Sharaa and his coalition of militias did not plan for maintaining sectarian, ethnic, and religious harmony upon taking power. This has led to violations, insecurity, and mismanagement that jeopardize all Syrians, regardless of faith or sect.
Religious extremists often have a narrow view of diversity and difference in society, which negatively impacts populations, especially in a diverse country like Syria.
5. Syria: Vision for Revival
I am not here to direct the Syrian presidency or tell Syrians what to do—they know their situation best. What is essential is high vigilance within the ruling system. Regional powers, including Turkey and major states, have interests that may conflict with the new Syrian government.
Syria will rise if the following conditions are met:
1. Guaranteeing security for all Syrians.
2. Uniform political and administrative governance for all citizens, without discrimination.
3. National reconciliation to extinguish hatred and revenge, following the Prophetic example at Mecca and the approach of the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them).
4. Distinguishing true enemies from those pretending friendship while hiding ulterior motives.
5. Diligent cooperation with regional neighbors from Iraq to Lebanon, including reevaluating relations with Hezbollah, avoiding demonization, and recognizing its role in confronting the Zionist enemy.
6. Promoting tolerance among different sects and religions.
7. Activating local economic potential without waiting for foreign aid or investment, provided security is guaranteed, as capital flees unstable environments.
Syria has immense potential, and its talented human resources, both domestic and abroad, are ready to contribute to rebuilding the country-if proper conditions are provided.
