US in Direct Contact with Syrian Group that Ousted Assad, Blinken Says
U.S. in Contact with Syrian Rebel Group Despite Terror Designation
Aqaba, Jordan – In a surprising move, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed Saturday that american officials have been in direct contact with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the Syrian rebel group that spearheaded the recent overthrow of President Bashar Assad.
This revelation marks the first time a biden administration official has publicly acknowledged communication with HTS, a group designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the United States and other nations.
Speaking at a news conference in Aqaba, Jordan, Blinken declined to elaborate on the nature of these contacts. Though, he emphasized the importance of conveying messages to HTS regarding its conduct and governance during this transitional period.
“Yes, we have been in contact with HTS and with other parties,” Blinken stated. “Our message to the Syrian people is this: We want them to succeed and we’re prepared to help them do so.”
HTS, which previously had ties to al-Qaida, has been subject to severe sanctions since its designation as a terrorist organization in 2018. These sanctions prohibit any ”material support” to the group or its members. Though, they do not legally prevent U.S. officials from communicating with designated entities.
In a separate interview on Syrian television, HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, did not directly address contact with the United States. He did, however, confirm that the new authorities in Damascus are engaging with Western embassies.
As seizing control of Damascus, HTS has focused on establishing security and initiating a political transition. The group has also sought to reassure a public grappling with the sudden fall of Assad and concerns about extremist elements within the rebel ranks. Insurgent leaders maintain that HTS has distanced itself from its extremist past.
Al-Sharaa, in a video message released Friday, congratulated ”the great Syrian people for the victory of the blessed revolution.”
While U.S. officials acknowledge al-Sharaa’s recent statements regarding the protection of minority and women’s rights, they remain cautious, expressing skepticism about the long-term commitment to these principles.
On Friday, rebels and Syria’s unarmed opposition collaborated with U.S. officials to secure the release of an American citizen who had been imprisoned by the Assad regime.The U.S. continues its search for Austin Tice, an American journalist who disappeared in Syria 12 years ago.
“We have impressed upon everyone we’ve been in contact with the importance of helping find Austin Tice and bringing him home,” Blinken emphasized.
This unexpected progress raises questions about the future of U.S.policy in Syria and the potential for engagement with HTS, despite its controversial past.
US-HTS Contact: Expert Weighs In on Surprising Development
Following secretary of State Antony Blinken’s confirmation of US dialogue with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), NewsDirectory3.com spoke with Dr. Sarah Khan, a leading expert on Syrian politics and terrorism at the middle East Institute, to analyze the implications of this development.
NewsDirectory3.com: Dr.Khan, Blinken’s admission of US contact with HTS is unprecedented. What are the possible motivations behind this move?
Dr. khan: This is indeed a surprising shift in US policy toward HTS. Considering their designation as a foreign terrorist association, this contact suggests a pragmatic approach driven by several factors.
The rapid overthrow of Assad, with HTS at the forefront, has created a new reality on the ground. The US likely seeks to influence HTS’s governance and ensure stability during this volatile transition period.Additionally,securing the release of the American citizen and possibly gaining information on Austin Tice’s whereabouts could be high priorities.
NewsDirectory3.com: HTS has a complex history and ties to al-Qaida. How credible are their claims of distancing themselves from extremism?
Dr. Khan: HTS has indeed undergone a transformation since severing ties with al-Qaida in 2016. However, their past actions and ideology cannot be easily erased. While they have made statements promising inclusivity and respect for minorities, it’s crucial to observe their actions and policies in the coming months.Genuine commitment to reform needs demonstrable evidence.
NewsDirectory3.com: This contact raises important questions about US policy in Syria. What potential implications does this hold for future relations with HTS?
Dr. Khan: This situation is incredibly complex.While dialogue is essential for stability and information gathering, it also risks legitimizing a group with a controversial past. The US must carefully navigate this delicate balance.
future US policy will likely hinge on HTS’s adherence to its declared commitments – respecting human rights, fostering inclusivity, and renouncing violence. Continued monitoring and assessment are crucial to determine the viability of any long-term engagement. This is a crucial moment, and the world will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds.