The Syrian conflict, which began in 2011 as part of the Arab Spring uprisings, has evolved into a protracted and multifaceted struggle. At present, the conflict has reached a stalemate, with little hope of a political settlement in the near future. Bashar al-Assad's regime maintains control over approximately 70% of Syrian territory, backed by allies such as Russia and Iran. Although large-scale offensives have decreased, sporadic skirmishes continue in various regions.

The humanitarian toll of this prolonged conflict is staggering. Nearly half a million people have lost their lives, and an astonishing 12 million have been displaced from their homes, becoming refugees in their own country. Widespread poverty, food insecurity, and a collapsing economy further exacerbate the suffering of the Syrian population.

While the intensity of violence has diminished, the humanitarian crisis in Syria has reached unprecedented levels. It is a fractured nation with a staggering 6.8 million internally displaced persons (IDPs), the highest number in the world. Over 90% of Syrians live below the poverty line, and food insecurity has reached alarming proportions.

The economic meltdown in neighboring Lebanon, compounded by regime corruption, sanctions, and more than a decade of war, has caused the Syrian economy to collapse. The Syrian lira has depreciated significantly, and a cholera outbreak in recent years highlighted the fragile state of Syria's health and sanitation systems. Moreover, the catastrophic earthquakes in Turkey further intensified Syria's humanitarian crisis, leaving thousands dead and millions homeless.

In a surprising turn of events, some countries in the region have initiated steps to normalize relations with the Assad regime, despite its dismal human rights record. These efforts began in earnest in late 2018 when the United Arab Emirates reopened its embassy in Damascus. Other countries, including Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, and Oman, have taken tentative steps towards diplomatic rapprochement. Assad's visit to the UAE in March 2022 marked a significant moment, signifying warming ties between Syria and the Arab world.

Several factors drive these normalization efforts. Some regional powers see this as a countermeasure against growing Iranian influence in Syria, while others seek to reestablish economic ties as their own economies suffer downturns. The recent earthquakes in Syria accelerated this process, with governments in the region leveraging the catastrophe for political cover to deepen ties with Assad.

As countries in the region normalize relations with the Assad regime, demands for accountability should not be abandoned. The international community can take several steps to address the harms done and prevent future violations:

Conditionality: Countries in the region that seek closer ties with Assad should demand a shift in behavior that improves conditions on the ground. For instance, diplomatic efforts could focus on compelling Assad to facilitate greater access for humanitarian aid and address critical issues like IDPs.

Refugee Protection: International pressure should discourage involuntary Syrian refugee returns. Returning refugees face significant risks, as documented by Amnesty International. The international community must insist on safe, voluntary, and dignified returns in line with international law.

Missing Persons Mechanism: The United Nations should establish a mechanism to clarify the fate of thousands of Syrians who have disappeared during the conflict. This would address a pressing demand of Syrian families seeking information on their loved ones and contribute to justice and accountability.

Syria's 12-year-long civil war has resulted in immense suffering for its population and created complex challenges for the international community. While the conflict appears to have settled into a stalemate, the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen. The recent normalization efforts with the Assad regime by some regional countries add new layers of complexity to the situation. However, by prioritizing accountability and pushing for positive changes on the ground, the international community can play a crucial role in shaping a more stable and just future for Syria.