The
currently stateless Kurds sit astride the Iraq-Syria border on land
blessed/cursed with oil, other resources, and geopolitical
significance. Is it any wonder that mega-corporations and their
client states are looking to use the Kurds, stoke conflict, and
exploit the situation?
by
Whitney Webb
Part
8 - Non-oil assets of Syrian Kurdistan also tempt corporations and
governments
In
addition to oil, the “Kurdistan” of Syria also includes much of
Syria’s freshwater, including its three largest reservoirs, as well
as much of its electricity (hydropower via Tabqa) and its
agricultural resources. The growth of Syria’s Kurdistan also has
major implications for one of Syria’s other key assets: its
location. In 2013, The New York Times noted that “Syria’s prime
location and muscle make it the strategic center of the Middle East.”
Syria’s
strategic location makes it crucial to the regional flow of
hydrocarbons. Having the northern section of Syria — and
potentially the eastern as well, if the U.S. gets its way — under
the control of a U.S. ally could have a profound effect on future and
existing pipelines. Notably, it would complicate the land route
between Syria and Iran, Syria’s staunchest regional ally and
long-time foe of the U.S. and Israel — a scenario highlighted by
U.S.-based intelligence firm Stratfor back in 2002.
The
words of late journalist and historian Patrick Seale – “Whoever
would lead the Middle East must control Syria” – ring true for
the U.S. government now more than ever. With internal reports warning
of the U.S.’ waning position as the “world’s only superpower,”
the division of Iraq and Syria is essential to Washington’s designs
to maintain its influence, as well as the influence of the corporate
powers it protects.
***
Source,
links:
http://www.mintpressnews.com/geopolitics-corporate-profits-push-iraq-syria-towards-partition/230830/
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