Introduction
One framework proposed in order to analyze the Middle East treats it as a penetrated regional sub-system. As such, the Middle East is subject to exceptional influence and intervention from the outside world, especially by the great powers operating at the international system level. As Russia’s military posture in Syria has transformed into an expeditionary, combat role, this is reminding many of the darkest days of the Cold War. By eliminating what it deems “unacceptable” opposition groups (including groups that Turkey supports), the Russian strategy is to turn the quagmire in Syria into one that is an “easy choice” for …read more