As Syria’s humanitarian crisis worsens, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar appear to have emerged as the trio of countries helping the rebels overthrow the regime, according to news reports.

Turkey’s motivation makes sense – it is a neighbor to Syria and has a stake in the nation’s stability. Saudi Arabia is motivated by Iran-related causes. But what about Qatar?

In a recent op-ed, Michael Stephens, researcher at the United Royal Services Institute, said the truth is anyone’s guess.

Here’s his theory:

The Emir wants to secure a legacy for himself as the man who took the Arab world into a more activist phase of multilateral action. As the man who pushed a lethargic, divided region to stand up and solve Arab problems with Arab action, backed by the use of force for those who don’t seem to get the message. A certain Mr Gaddafi and Mr Assad being the primary targets who needed ‘education’…

Will the Emir’s dream become a reality? Who knows, but for now the man is putting his money where his mouth is, and opposition fighters in Syria are receiving the benefits.

Thoughts?

Credit: Photo by Freedom House