The recent overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s government in Syria has led to changes in international relations, particularly concerning the United States' engagement with the Syrian rebel group that spearheaded the ouster. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken Syria contact has publicly confirmed that American officials have been in direct contact with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS Syria rebel group).
This move is particularly significant as HTS is designated a foreign terrorist organisation by the U.S. and others. This article explores the context, implications, and the reactions surrounding this U.S. contact Syrian rebel group.
Blinken's Confirmation of Syria Contact
Blinken's Syria contact was revealed during a press conference in Aqaba, Jordan, where he stated, "Yes, we have been in contact with HTS and with other parties".
While he did not disclose specifics of the talks, he emphasised the importance of conveying U.S. messages about HTS’s conduct and governance plans during a transition period. Blinken also communicated that “our message to the Syrian people is this: We want them to succeed and we're prepared to help them do so”. This is the first time a U.S. official has publicly acknowledged contact between the Biden administration and HTS, which led the coalition of armed groups that ousted Assad.
HTS Terrorist Group
HTS, formerly an affiliate of al-Qaeda, has been designated as a foreign terrorist organisation by the U.S. State Department since 2018. This designation carries severe sanctions, including a ban on providing “material support” to the group or its members.
Despite these sanctions, communicating with designated groups is not legally barred for U.S. officials. The UK government also proscribed HTS in 2017 due to its historical links to Al-Qaeda and the late ISIS leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.
The group's leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, fought for al-Qaeda in Iraq as the Nusra Front. He claims to have cut ties with al-Qaeda in 2016 and has attempted to shift HTS towards a more tolerant ideology.
Assad Ouster and U.S. Reaction
The Assad ouster U.S. reaction is a nuanced one. While the U.S. is engaging with HTS, they remain skeptical of the group’s intentions. U.S. officials acknowledge that al-Sharaa has made positive statements about protecting minority and women's rights, but they doubt his long-term commitment.
Blinken expressed that "what happens inside of Syria can have powerful consequences well beyond its borders, from mass displacement to terrorism," indicating a cautious approach. The U.S. is also communicating directly with authorities in Syria, beyond HTS.
Furthermore, U.S. officials are working on finding Austin Tice, an American journalist who disappeared 12 years ago near Damascus. The rebels also helped to safely turn over an American man who had been imprisoned by Assad to U.S. officials.
HTS’s Actions and Attempts at Reassurance
After seizing Damascus, HTS has focused on establishing security and initiating a political transition. The group has tried to reassure the Syrian public, who are both shocked by Assad's fall and worried about extremist elements within the rebels.
Al-Sharaa, in a video message, congratulated the Syrian people for “the victory of the blessed revolution”. HTS has tried to demonstrate its departure from its extremist past. In the meantime, Blinken stated in his press conference that Syria contact was vital to a smooth transition.
Closing Thoughts
The U.S. decision to make U.S. contact with Syrian rebel group, HTS, following the Assad ouster is a complex and controversial move. While the Blinken Syria contact is intended to facilitate a smooth transition and convey U.S. expectations, the history and designation of HTS as a terrorist group presents significant challenges.