U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed direct contact with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham amid the collapse of Assad’s regime. The discussions focused on aiding American journalist Austin Tice and promoting principles for a new Syrian government. Amidst ongoing regional conflicts, Blinken warned against allowing ISIS to regroup and addressed divisions over Israeli military actions in Syria.
During his recent diplomatic visit, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed that the United States has engaged directly with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the rebel group that currently holds substantial power in Syria. This acknowledgment marks a notable moment in U.S. interactions with a group designated as a terrorist organization. The discussions were prompted by the destabilization of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Blinken emphasized that assisting in the recovery of American journalist Austin Tice, who has been missing for over a decade in Syria, was a key focus during these contacts.
Blinken reiterated the U.S. commitment to a future Syrian government that addresses key principles: respecting the rights of all citizens, preventing the country from becoming a base for terrorism, ensuring humanitarian aid delivery, and securing chemical weapons. These principles were reinforced through a joint statement with international partners following discussions in Aqaba, Jordan.
Amid ongoing conflicts in the region, particularly between Turkish-backed forces and U.S.-aligned Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Blinken cautioned against actions that might allow ISIS to regroup. He also urged Iraq’s Prime Minister to take action against Iranian-backed militias to prevent further destabilization. Furthermore, divisions have arisen between the U.S. and Arab states regarding Israeli military activity in Syria, particularly relating to Israel’s military operations near the Golan Heights.
The U.S. has not publicly engaged with HTS for many years due to its designation as a terrorist organization. The recent collapse of Assad’s regime has prompted a reevaluation of American diplomacy in Syria, particularly concerning the stability of the region and the implications for U.S. national security and international alliances. The negotiations aim to navigate the complex landscape post-Assad while addressing humanitarian and strategic issues, including the fight against terrorism.
In sum, the U.S. is adopting a proactive diplomatic approach to address the shifting dynamics in Syria following Assad’s regime’s collapse. Direct dialogues with HTS, alongside collaborative efforts with international partners, indicate a stringent commitment to fostering a stable Syria while safeguarding American interests and combating terrorism. Blinken’s engagement highlights the complexities faced by the U.S. as it navigates regional tensions and strives for a cohesive strategy moving forward.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
