US Engages Directly with Syria’s HTS Rebels Following Assad’s Fall
In a historic first, the United States has confirmed direct engagement with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the rebel group now in control of Syria after the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad. Speaking in Jordan, Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged the contact, primarily centered on the search for missing American journalist Austin Tice.
This marks a significant shift in US policy, as HTS remains classified as a terrorist organization by Washington. HTS, originally established as Jabhat al-Nusra in 2011 and affiliated with al-Qaeda, severed ties with the global jihadist network in 2016. While its leadership now claims to support religious tolerance and inclusivity, skepticism persists due to its violent past.
Regional Talks and Concerns Over Syria’s Future
Blinken’s remarks came during high-level discussions in Jordan with diplomats from Arab nations, Turkey, and Europe. The talks focused on ensuring Syria’s stability and avoiding a repeat of Libya’s chaotic aftermath following Muammar Gaddafi’s fall.
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi emphasized the need for a peaceful transition to prevent Syria from plunging into further disorder. A joint statement from the meeting urged the establishment of an inclusive government that safeguards minority rights and denies a foothold to extremist groups.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stressed the importance of preserving and reforming Syria’s institutions. “We must not allow terrorism to exploit this fragile transition period,” he warned, adding that lessons from past failures should guide international efforts.
Syria’s Absence and Shadow of Foreign Powers
Notably absent from the talks were representatives from HTS or Syria itself. Also missing were Iran and Russia, whose support had propped up Assad’s regime during the country’s devastating 13-year civil war. The conflict, which began with Assad’s brutal crackdown on pro-democracy protests, claimed over 500,000 lives and displaced millions.
The shadow of foreign intervention looms large over Syria’s future. Iraq’s Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein voiced concerns about regional instability, calling for unified efforts to ensure Syria avoids further fragmentation along sectarian lines.
Israel’s Airstrikes Continue Amid Regional Tensions
Meanwhile, Israel has escalated its airstrikes across Syria, targeting what it describes as threats to its security. These actions have drawn widespread condemnation from neighboring countries, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressing alarm over the scale of the attacks.
HTS: From Jihadist Group to Rulers of Syria
HTS’s rise to power represents a dramatic turn in Syria’s turbulent history. Under the leadership of Ahmed al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, the group has attempted to rebrand itself. Despite its assurances of inclusivity, doubts remain about its ability to govern and deliver stability.
Hope Amid Uncertainty
As Syrians grapple with the aftermath of Assad’s downfall, the focus now shifts to building a government capable of uniting the fractured nation. Analysts agree that achieving lasting peace will require cooperation not only within Syria but also among the international stakeholders who have long shaped its fate.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Syria can emerge from the ruins of war as a unified, stable nation or remain mired in chaos. For millions of Syrians, the promise of freedom hangs precariously in the balance.
