The Levant

Description
Purpose and Vision
Research Areas

The Levant is a geopolitically, culturally, and historically rich region that has long been at the heart of the Eastern Mediterranean. The term “Levant” originates from the French word meaning “where the sun rises,” symbolizing the East as seen from Europe. Today, the Levant generally refers to the region encompassing Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, and Israel.

Historically, the Levant has served as a crossroads for civilizations, religions, and cultures—a region notable for its trade routes, religious centers, and cosmopolitan character. In recent years, however, it has also become associated with deepening crises, political instability, and ongoing transformation. The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011, and the escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict—particularly since 2023—have positioned the Levant not only as a focal point in regional affairs but also as a significant concern in global politics.

The ORSAM Levant Coordination Office aims to closely monitor this complex and dynamic region, providing in-depth analysis of political developments, key actors, areas of crisis, and processes of social transformation. The office is committed to producing high-quality information for decision-makers, academics, and the general public, while also developing realistic and actionable policy recommendations for the region.

The fall of the Assad regime in December 2024 and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict have further intensified global focus on the Levant. The active involvement of regional and international powers in shaping the region highlights its growing strategic importance. Issues such as energy security, cross-border migration, ideological and sectarian rivalries, and great power competition position the Levant as one of the most critical sub-regions of the Middle East.

ORSAM’s research in this area focuses on: