US in direct contact with HTS rebels in Syria, confirms Blinken

New Delhi, Dec 15: The United States has acknowledged engaging in "direct contact" with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the powerful rebel group that now dominates Syria following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad's regime, reports BBC.

Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State revealed the development while addressing reporters in Jordan, marking the first public confirmation of American dialogue with HTS, a group still designated as a terrorist organisation by the US.

Blinken’s announcement showcases a shift in US engagement with Syria's political and militant organisations, acknowledging the new realities on the ground.

Despite these developments, challenges loom large in the country. Absent from the Jordan talks were representatives from Syria itself, as well as Iran and Russia, the two powers that had propped up Assad during the conflict.

Speaking after consultations with officials from Arab countries, Turkey, and Europe, Blinken emphasised the need for a peaceful transition in Syria. "We've been in contact with HTS and other parties," he said, citing discussions over issues such as the fate of Austin Tice, an American journalist missing in Syria for more than a decade.

Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi warned against the risk of Syria "descending into chaos," echoing regional fears of a repeat of Libya’s post-Gaddafi turmoil.

The joint press release issued after the talks called for the establishment of an inclusive Syrian government that respects minority rights and rejects terrorism as a political tool.

Iraq’s Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein highlighted the need for regional cooperation to prevent further instability in Syria, a concern shared across the Middle East.

The Turkish Foreign Minister stressed the importance of preserving and reforming Syria’s existing institutions. "Never allow terrorism to take advantage of the transition period,"Turkish Foreign Minister said, urging coordinated efforts to avoid the mistakes of the past. The diplomatic talks in Jordan highlight the urgency of ensuring Syria's stability in the aftermath of Assad’s departure.

HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, earlier known with the name Abu Mohammed al-Jolani has appointed Mohammed al-Bashir as Syria’s interim prime minister. The group has signalled its intent to establish an inclusive government, though scepticism persists due to its violent extremist history.

The overthrow of Assad, that took place on December 8 when opposition forces took Damascus, ended his family’s half-century rule. Assad took refuge in Russia after a 13-year civil war. The conflict claimed over half a million lives, displaced millions, and drew in international powers and their proxies.

The shadow of external interference hangs heavily over Syria’s future. For now, Syrians face the major task of rebuilding their country while navigating the risky balance of newfound freedom and persistent instability.