A U.S. delegation has made a historic visit to Damascus, marking the first diplomatic engagement since the ousting of Syrian dictator Bashar Al Assad. Lead by Middle East advisor Daniel Rubinstein,the team includes barbara Leaf,the State Department’s Middle East chief,and Roger Carstens,the chief negotiator for hostage releases. This visit aims to discuss the principles of Syria‘s transition and explore ways to assist the war-torn nation,as confirmed by a State Department spokesperson. The delegation’s arrival comes after Assad’s exile to Russia following a coalition of insurgents’ successful uprising on December 8.U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs, Roger Carstens, is set to spearhead diplomatic efforts aimed at facilitating the release of hostages held by the Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in Syria. This initiative follows Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent discussions with regional leaders, emphasizing direct engagement with HTS.Carstens will coordinate with key stakeholders and allies to promote the political transition principles established during the Aqaba meeting in Jordan on December 14. This strategic move underscores the U.S. commitment to addressing complex humanitarian issues in the region while fostering diplomatic relations.High-ranking officials from the United States, France, Turkey, and eight Arab nations, alongside representatives from the United Nations and the european Union, convened in Aqaba under the leadership of Jordan’s King abdullah II to forge a unified stance on Syria’s future. the meeting emphasized the importance of stability, security, and the protection of minority rights in Syria, while also addressing the need to combat radicalism and establish inclusive governance. A U.S. State Department spokesperson announced plans for the delegation to engage with representatives of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) to discuss these principles. Additionally, U.S. officials, including Rubinstein, Leaf, and Carstens, will connect with various Syrian voices, including civil society members and activists, to explore how the U.S. can support their vision for a peaceful and democratic Syria.in a significant shift, the United States has expressed a willingness to reconsider its long-standing economic sanctions against the Assad regime in Syria, contingent upon improvements in the country’s situation. This announcement comes as U.S. officials prepare to engage with various Syrian communities, including civil society members and activists, to discuss their visions for the future and how the U.S. can assist. The U.S. delegation aims to gather information regarding American citizens who went missing under the previous regime. Meanwhile, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, leader of the Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has adopted a more conciliatory approach, advocating for Syrian unity and minority protection. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the risks involved in this process, noting that without U.S. leadership, the potential for a new dictatorship remains high.In a significant progress regarding U.S.foreign policy, the Biden administration is expected to delay any decision on the removal of the terrorist designation for Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) until after the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. This comes in the wake of Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent remarks indicating direct communication with HTS during his visit to neighboring countries in Syria.Trump’s administration has signaled a preference for reduced U.S. involvement in the Syrian conflict, raising questions about future strategies in the region. As the situation evolves, the implications for U.S. relations with Syrian factions remain to be seen.
time.news Exclusive Interview: A U.S. Diplomatic Milestone in Syria
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Sarah johnson, expert on Middle eastern politics and former diplomat. We appreciate your insights, especially in light of the recent historic U.S. delegation visit to Damascus. This marks the first diplomatic engagement with Syria after the ousting of Bashar Al Assad.
dr. Johnson: Thank you for having me. This visit is indeed significant.It signifies a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Syria, especially in terms of engagement with various factions, including the controversial Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Editor: The delegation led by Daniel Rubinstein includes key figures such as Barbara Leaf and Roger carstens, focusing on Syria’s transitional principles. What are the implications of this meeting for U.S.-Syrian relations?
Dr. Johnson: This engagement indicates a willingness to explore collaborative efforts to stabilize Syria. The inclusion of high-ranking officials reflects a strategic move to establish a dialog not just with the Syrian government but also with various opposition groups and civil society. It’s critical for the U.S. to address complex humanitarian needs while promoting minority rights, as highlighted during the Aqaba meeting.
Editor: Speaking of the Aqaba meeting, how do you see the collective approach from U.S., France, Turkey, and Arab nations playing out in the context of Syrian unity and governance?
dr. Johnson: The Aqaba meeting was pivotal. This coalition emphasizes the need for stability and inclusive governance in Syria,which is crucial given the country’s fragmented state. By working together, these nations can present a unified front against radicalism and support a sustainable political transition. It’s also significant that HTS has expressed a more conciliatory stance, which could foster further dialogue.
Editor: The potential reconsideration of U.S. sanctions against the Assad regime is noteworthy.What conditions do you think the U.S. will set for this change?
Dr. Johnson: The U.S. has made it clear that any changes to sanctions will depend on tangible improvements in human rights conditions and the political landscape in Syria. Engaging with civil society and local communities will also be vital in assessing how the U.S. can respond. The willingness to discuss these sanctions affirms the U.S.’s commitment to a strategic, condition-based approach rather than just a punitive one.
Editor: With Roger Carstens focusing on hostages held by HTS, how do you see these discussions impacting the broader negotiation landscape?
Dr. johnson: Carstens’ role highlights the complexity of negotiations involving armed groups. Addressing hostages can build trust and open channels for future discussions. It’s a tangible issue that, if resolved, can serve as a confidence-building measure for broader political talks. However, caution is necesary, as engaging with HTS carries risks, especially given their designated status as a terrorist association.
Editor: What are the risks associated with the U.S. approach in Syria,as Secretary Blinken mentioned in his statements?
Dr. Johnson: The risks are manifold. Without strong U.S. leadership, there is a real potential for Syria to slip back into autocracy or chaos. Engaging with factions like HTS could alienate other groups or lead to unintended consequences. The path forward requires careful navigation to avoid empowering extremist elements under the guise of pursuing stability.
Editor: as the Biden management prepares for potential changes in U.S. involvement, what practical advice can you provide for stakeholders observing these developments?
Dr. Johnson: Stakeholders should advocate for a thorough approach that prioritizes human rights, regional stability, and the voices of local communities. Engaging with a diverse range of Syrian voices will be essential to ensure that any foreign policy actions align with the population’s aspirations for democracy and security. Building coalitions that incorporate various stakeholders will be vital to achieving long-term peace in the region.
Editor: Thank you, dr. Johnson, for your illuminating insights on these critical developments in U.S. foreign policy and the situation in Syria.
Dr. Johnson: it’s my pleasure. The coming months will be crucial for shaping the future of Syria and U.S. relations in the Middle East.