BEIRUT (AP) — The Arab League’s decision to re-admit Syria after 12 years of ostracization was a large symbolic victory for Damascus. Analysts said the decision is part of a larger regional realignment and an indication of the waning role of the United States. Syria’s return to the regional organization was approved at a closed-door meeting in Cairo on Sunday, following recent bilateral deals to restore relations between Damascus and other Arab countries, notably Saudi Arabia. However, analysts said Syria’s return to the Arab fold may not immediately produce the reconstruction dollars that Syria’s long-ostracized president, Bashar Assad, is likely hoping for. It may also not bring agreements on refugee returns and reducing drug trafficking.
