What's happened
The US has confirmed direct contact with Syria's Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebels, following their recent victory over Assad's regime. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of discussing governance and conduct during the transition period. This marks a significant shift in US policy towards a group previously designated as terrorists.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to AP News, Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed that the US has been in contact with HTS, stating, 'We want them to succeed and we’re prepared to help them do so.' This marks a notable shift given HTS's designation as a terrorist organization since 2018. Meanwhile, the New York Times highlights the uncertainty surrounding HTS's governance capabilities, noting that the group has attempted to reassure the public about its intentions post-Assad. The contrasting perspectives from these sources illustrate the complexities of US engagement with a group previously viewed with suspicion. As the situation evolves, the implications for regional stability and US foreign policy remain significant.
How we got here
The recent ousting of Bashar al-Assad's government has led to a power vacuum in Syria, prompting the US to engage with HTS, which has claimed to have moved away from its extremist roots. This engagement comes amid a broader regional realignment involving key players like Turkey and the Arab League.
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