Syrian Rebel Leader Says Working to Secure Chemical Weapon Sites

by time news

Syrian rebel ‌leader⁣ Ahmad al-Sharaa, known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, announced to Reuters on ‌Wednesday ‌that his⁢ group, Hayat ⁢Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is ⁢collaborating with international organizations to secure ​potential ⁤sites where chemical weapons might be stored.

HTS, which evolved from al-Qaeda’s⁤ Syrian branch but⁤ has recently sought to moderate its image, previously stated its​ firm commitment to not utilize these weapons ​under any ⁢circumstances.

Golani reaffirmed his intention to ⁤establish‍ a technocratic government. ⁤The current transitional⁤ government is scheduled to remain in power⁣ until‍ March​ 2025, according to a⁤ statement released by his group.

In response, the Pentagon welcomed Golani’s comments regarding the ​securing of potential‍ chemical weapons sites but emphasized that ⁤”actions must align with words.”

Golani’s remarks surfaced amidst intensifying Israeli airstrikes targeting the ⁤Assad⁤ regime’s military assets, including suspected chemical weapons sites. ⁢Israel​ fears ​that former Syrian⁤ army weaponry could fall into the hands of hostile forces within Syria, as well as Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Further confirming​ this strategic concern, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported fresh Israeli airstrikes on Wednesday‍ targeting Assad-linked ‍sites in the coastal provinces of​ Latakia and ⁤Tartus.

Simultaneously occurring, US Defence ​Secretary Lloyd Austin conveyed to ⁤his Israeli counterpart, ⁣Israel Katz, during a phone call on Wednesday the significance of close consultation between the United States‌ and Israel concerning ⁣developments ​in Syria.⁤

Austin informed Katz that Washington is monitoring the situation in Syria ⁣and supports a peaceful, ‌inclusive ​political transition.He also reiterated⁢ the US commitment ⁣to prevent⁢ the Islamic State extremist group ‌from reestablishing a ⁤safe haven within Syria.

What are the historical ties between Hayat Tahrir al-Sham⁤ and al-qaeda, and how do they‌ impact current negotiations for legitimacy in Syria?

Interview: Understanding the Implications of HTS’s Actions in Syria

Editor at Time.news: Thank ‍you for joining us today to discuss recent‌ developments in Syria, especially the ‍announcement by Ahmad ​al-Sharaa, known ​as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, regarding Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’s (HTS) engagement ⁢with international organizations​ concerning potential chemical weapons sites. Can you provide‌ some insights into HTS’s evolving⁤ positions and what this means⁢ for the Syrian conflict?

Expert: Absolutely, it’s an important moment for HTS and the broader situation in Syria.‍ Golani’s announcement marks a significant shift. ⁤Previously,HTS was closely associated with al-Qaeda,but they ‌have been attempting to moderate their image. By actively working with international bodies to ⁤secure chemical weapons sites,‍ HTS is possibly trying to position‍ itself as⁤ a responsible actor in the ​conflict,⁣ aiming for ​international legitimacy.

Editor: The Pentagon‌ has responded positively to Golani’s comments but stressed‌ that actions need to align with words. What are the implications of this cautious optimism from the U.S.?

Expert: The Pentagon’s response ​underscores the skepticism that continues⁤ to exist ⁣regarding HTS’s intentions. While Golani asserting a commitment⁣ to not use⁣ chemical weapons is a positive step,it doesn’t automatically translate to trust. The U.S. is ⁣highly likely keeping ⁢a close watch ⁢on⁣ HTS’s actual‍ moves on the ground. If HTS follows through with genuine actions, it coudl open discussions for broader engagement,⁢ particularly if they ​can demonstrate a ‌commitment to stability in the region.

Editor: You mentioned the strategic concerns regarding Israel and⁢ the ⁣ongoing airstrikes. How does this layer of complexity affect the dynamics in ⁤Syria?

Expert: Israel’s airstrikes reflect a critical security ‍concern; they are primarily worried about the potential transfer of weapons,​ including chemical agents, ⁢to hostile groups ‌like Hezbollah. The⁣ continuous strikes on sites linked to the ​Assad regime indicate that Israel sees a substantial threat ​that requires ⁢pre-emptive⁣ action. ⁢It creates a‌ situation where HTS’s actions regarding chemical weapons won’t just impact their local standing but ⁢also the broader region’s security ⁤dynamics, especially with Israeli interests at stake.

Editor: Alongside⁤ these military maneuvers,U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin conveyed the necessity‌ for ‍close⁢ consultation with Israel regarding​ developments in Syria. What does this​ mean for U.S. foreign policy moving forward?

Expert: This emphasis on communication demonstrates the ​U.S.’s commitment to maintaining a coordinated approach to threats originating ‌from Syria. By assuring⁣ Israel of U.S. support for a peaceful political transition, ​Austin is reinforcing the narrative that Washington ⁤prioritizes stability and ​counterterrorism. It ​also signals that⁢ the U.S. is not just a passive observer ‌but an active participant in shaping the outcome of conflicts in the region,particularly in⁣ preventing the resurgence ‍of groups⁣ like the Islamic State.

Editor: what practical ⁢advice would you⁤ give‍ to our⁤ readers regarding these‌ developments? How should they view the⁤ complexities of the ⁤situation in Syria?

Expert: ​ Readers should approach the situation in Syria with a nuanced perspective. It’s important to recognize that despite HTS’s attempts to rebrand itself, the group’s historical ties⁢ to extremism cannot be overlooked. ⁢Monitoring how their actions evolve will be key. For those interested in international relations or humanitarian issues, staying informed and understanding these issues can help create a more⁤ comprehensive view of global conflicts. Engaging in discourse about these developments is​ crucial—people must understand that their awareness ⁢can ‌contribute to informed​ advocacy and discussions regarding foreign policy.

Editor:⁤ Thank you for these valuable insights; they certainly help clarify the‌ complexities ⁢unfolding in Syria.

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