US engages directly with Syria’s new government, Blinken confirms
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken delivers a statement to the press after the meeting with the foreign ministers of the Arab Contact Group on Syria in Jordan's southern city of Aqaba on December 14, 2024. (AFP Photo)
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed on Saturday that the United States has engaged in direct talks with Syria’s new opposition government, including Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS).
Speaking in Aqaba, Jordan, Blinken provided details of the U.S. approach to Syria’s post-Assad transition, emphasizing conditions for recognition and potential sanctions relief.
Blinken’s announcement followed meetings with foreign ministers and senior United Nations officials aimed at coordinating a unified international response to Syria’s ongoing political and humanitarian challenges.
Conditions for US recognition of Syria’s new government
Blinken outlined the principles the U.S. has presented to HTS and other groups for guiding Syria’s transition:
- Inclusivity: Forming a government that represents all Syrians, including minorities.
- Humanitarian aid: Ensuring aid reaches all areas and communities.
- Regional security: Preventing Syrian territory from being used to threaten neighboring countries.
- Chemical weapons: Securing or destroying the remaining chemical weapons stockpiles.
If the opposition government meets these conditions, the U.S. is prepared to extend recognition of HTS as Syria’s legitimate government. This recognition could open pathways for broader diplomatic engagement and potential relief from U.S. sanctions.
Blinken also warned HTS of the risks of international isolation if it fails to adhere to these principles.
Focus on missing journalist Austin Tice
Blinken highlighted the importance of finding the missing American journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared in Syria in 2012.
He confirmed that the U.S. has raised this issue in discussions with HTS and other parties.
“Yes, we’ve been in contact with HTS and other parties. We’ve impressed upon everyone we’ve been in contact with the importance of helping find Austin Tice and bringing him home,” Blinken said.
Sanctions relief and broader diplomatic engagement
Blinken hinted at the possibility of sanctions relief if Syria’s new government aligns with U.S. goals for a peaceful and inclusive transition. “We will look at various sanctions and other measures we’ve taken and respond in kind,” he told reporters.
Such measures could ease the path for Syria’s integration into the international community, contingent on fulfilling the outlined principles.
