Lecture by Brigadier General Manap Tlass at Sciences Po – An Analysis of the Timing and Content Significance

Under the auspices of the prestigious Institute of Political Science "Sciences Po" in Paris, Brigadier General Manap Tlass will deliver tomorrow, Saturday, a lecture titled "Syria: Challenges and Future Prospects." This event is unlikely to be merely a passing academic occurrence; rather, it carries deep political implications, especially amidst growing questions about Syria’s future and potential solutions to its prolonged crisis.

It must be said that the timing of Brigadier Tlass’s appearance at this international forum reflects a growing awareness of the need to seek rescue solutions beyond traditional tools that have proven unsuccessful over the years. This public appearance opens up vital questions: Does this event indicate the start of a new phase of dialogue and the search for a comprehensive national formula? Could the idea and project of Brigadier Tlass, as some see it, be an attempt to restore the concept of "Syrian nationalism" based on partnership and unity? Far from projects of division or attempts by some to monopolize and seize control?

Since his defection in 2012, Tlass’s name has been associated with a vision aimed at reconciling the necessities of political change with preserving social cohesion. This vision, described by close associates as non-exclusive, believes that Syria is a homeland for all its sons. In a context where the Syrian society faces existential challenges, there appears to be an urgent need for credible figures—socially, militarily, and politically—who can serve as bridges between different parties.

Past events have revealed a harsh truth: change alone does not guarantee stability. In the absence of a comprehensive national project, Syria could turn into a battleground for more intense and complex conflicts. This awareness is no longer limited to Syrians; the international community also participates in it, realizing that any sustainable solution must originate from within Syria, excluding only those who brought the country to destruction and stained their hands with Syrian blood.

It is important to emphasize that no official statement or direct declaration has been issued by Brigadier Tlass regarding his intentions or efforts to assume power in Syria. His close circles confirm that his focus is on building a comprehensive national project involving all Syrians, rather than seeking to impose himself as a leader or ruler, given that Syria and its future are greater than any individual.

Most likely, the anticipated lecture is an opportunity to outline features of a new vision—perhaps not offering final solutions, but at least indicating the possibility of a rescue project or "roadmap" that restores Syria’s unity, its land and its people. In this context, some circles circulate a saying attributed to Brigadier Tlass: “Syria’s people inherited a leaky ship, and we all must work together to save it, rather than let it sink and drown everyone with it.”

In conclusion, this event could serve as a hand extended to national parties committed to a united Syria. Syria where rights and duties are equal, and where anyone with competence and achievement is given a space. It is a call for joint action, moving beyond past conflicts and differences over projects, to save the future.

By political analyst and media figure Ahmed Mansour