U.S. Confirms Direct Contact with Syrian Rebel Group HTS, Discusses Austin Tice Case and Assad's Ouster

Dec 14, 2024, 03:57 PM

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed that the United States has been in direct contact with the Syrian Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which played a significant role in the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad. This marks the first time the U.S. has acknowledged such direct communication with HTS, which has been designated a terrorist organization since 2018 due to its links with Al-Qaeda. Blinken stated that the discussions primarily focused on efforts to locate American journalist Austin Tice, who has been missing in Syria, and emphasized U.S. principles regarding the recognition of a future Syrian government. The U.S. is also considering potential sanctions against HTS based on its actions. Blinken made these remarks while concluding a Middle East trip aimed at addressing the aftermath of Assad's regime.