Syria update: after Qaddafi and amid growing economic distress

Syria Comment's Joshua Landis, associate professor of Middle East Studies at the University of Oklahoma, is back writing after a hiatus of some weeks and updates us as to the situation in Syira, particularly as it relates to the violent, gruesome death of Moammar Qaddafi and also the current economic situation, particularly as reflected in the prices of "mazoot" (kerosene oil), which is a staple of Syrian life both for homes and transportation.

With regards to Qaddafi, Landis writes: "Qaddafi's downfall can only be cheered even as one is horrified by his brutal end and the unruly vengeance and looting that has overtaken several towns and parts of Libya. Unfortunately, it is easy to envisage similar destruction and violence being visited on Syria as so many now predict civil war. The government's primary tactic for regaining control — inducing fear — increases the desire for retribution. Those of us with family in Syria are plotting ways to get them out as the situation becomes ever more violent."

And with regards to the growing economic discord in Syria, Landis adds that inflation has hit Syria and nowhere more so than in the energy sector. Syria Comment contributor Ehsani writes: "The topic in Syria is mazot (kerosene oil, used for heating) as we enter winter. The official price is syp 15 but no one sells at that price. Families who want to stock up for the winter and who have mazot tanks on their roofs or basements need to pay syp 32-33 to get them delivered. An average house (my sister) consumes 2000 liters a year. Others (like my dad) consume as much as 8000 liters a year. With a price difference of syp 17-18 from official prices, filling up 2000 liter tanks is a hit of syp 35,000. Most don't want to bite the bullet and pay it for they still hope to avoid the hit and pay the official price of SYP 15. This is the recent major calculation of households. Many cars use mazot too (taxis and service). Those are essentially stranded at gas stations. They wait for hours hoping to fill in at SYP 15 with little luck."

Full link: http://www.joshualandis.com/blog/?p=12510

Related Topics: Economy, Syria receive the latest by email: subscribe to the free middle east clarity mailing list