Home World Middle east US Officials Connect with Syrian Rebels After Assad’s Fall

US Officials Connect with Syrian Rebels After Assad’s Fall

US-Syria direct contact with HTS rebels
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Jordan: In a significant development regarding the situation in Syria, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has confirmed that the United States has established “direct contact” with the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebels, who recently overthrew the Assad regime. This is the first time the U.S. has officially acknowledged direct engagement with HTS, a group still classified as a terrorist organization by American authorities.

Focus on Missing Journalist

During a press conference in Jordan, Blinken highlighted that the discussions with HTS were primarily centered around the fate of Austin Tice, an American journalist who has been missing in Syria since 2012. Blinken’s comments come after talks with representatives from various Arab nations, Turkey, and European countries aimed at discussing the future of Syria.

Commitment to a Peaceful Transition

The officials present at the meeting emphasized the importance of supporting a peaceful transition process in Syria. Jordan’s foreign minister noted the collective desire of regional powers to prevent the country from “descending into chaos.” A joint communiqué from the meeting called for the establishment of an inclusive Syrian government that respects minority rights and does not serve as a safe haven for terrorist organizations.

The Need for New Governance

The discussions also highlighted the critical need for new governance structures in Syria that represent all segments of its population. Although HTS was not part of the discussions in Jordan, the implications of their recent takeover are significant for the future political landscape of Syria.

Regional Concerns and Stability

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein voiced significant worries about Syria’s future, highlighting the common concerns shared by countries in the Middle East. He warned against allowing the situation to spiral into chaos akin to that seen in Libya following the fall of Colonel Gaddafi.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan highlighted the critical need to preserve and reform Syria’s existing institutions. He cautioned against allowing terrorism to exploit the transition period and stressed the need for coordinated efforts to learn from past mistakes.

Conclusion

As the U.S. engages with the new power dynamics in Syria, the focus remains on establishing a stable and inclusive government that can address the needs and rights of all Syrians. The recent discussions reflect a strategic shift as regional and global powers seek to navigate the complex landscape in Syria and promote peace in the region. The ongoing situation will require careful monitoring as the international community continues to address the implications of the HTS’s rise to power.

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