Official U.S. government announcements or statements from the U.S. Department of State

Biden Administration Engages with HTS to Support Inclusive Syrian Government Transition Post-Assad

Dec 11, 2024, 08:08 AM

The Biden administration is reportedly engaging with the Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) to advocate for the establishment of an inclusive transitional government in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that the U.S. would recognize a new Syrian government if it adheres to specific criteria, including the prevention of terrorism, threats to neighboring countries, and the secure disposal of biological weapons. This marks the first contact between the U.S. government and HTS, with reports indicating that the administration is considering removing HTS from its terrorist list to facilitate international engagement with the new Syrian government. The U.S. has communicated that HTS should not assume leadership but instead support the formation of a transitional government that reflects the will of the Syrian people. The Biden administration is also coordinating with allies in the region, including Turkey, and is in contact with Trump's transition team regarding these discussions.