Middle East: Is a road map for peace in Syria in sight?

The Assad regime in Syria has been fighting insurgents for the last two years, but neither side seems strong enough to defeat the other. Now, the government and the opposition appear to want to negotiate. 

For a long time, talking to representatives of the Assad government was unthinkable for opponents. Ever since President Bashar Assad began his violent assault on his opponents, who took to the streets during what is now known as the Arab Spring, many have called for an end to his rule.

They hold him responsible for the civil war that has plunged the country into a deep crisis. Fights between government and opposition forces have led to more than 70,000 casualties so far, according to UN estimates. While the government has been obtaining arms from Russia and Iran, the opponents have been getting support from Qatar. This is one reason why neither side can prevail militarily.

Read more: Is a road map for peace in Syria in sight? | World | DW.DE | 18.02.2013