The situation in Syria is portrayed as many radical Islamist groups who may start a civil war.  This is not unlike the 109 parties to the Treaty of Westphalia that ended the Thirty-Years War in 1648.  Those negotiations took place at two locations over 6 years.  The warlords and princes who comprised the parties did not trust each other at all and so a complex arrangement was absolutely necessary if the fighting was to cease.  

Today we have new tools of communication, such as the cell phone and other methods of communication.  It is not unthinkable – if we can find some intermediaries – to start to bring these Islamist groups into some kind of stable balance.  It may require division of Syria into “states” with each sect having their own piece of property or state.  The engagement of a few open-minded religious leaders can help mold a new story.  

In looking for a solution to the Gaza War, this could be a step to creating a better support system for all countries in the region.