U.S. Syria policy/ post-Assad transition/ Hayat Tahrir al-Sham/ Syrian government conditions/ Biden Syria response/ WASHINGTON/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The Biden administration has pledged to recognize and support a new Syrian government that commits to renouncing terrorism, securing chemical weapons, and protecting the rights of minorities and women. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized a transparent, inclusive transition following the collapse of Bashar Assad’s regime.
U.S. Stance on Syria Transition: Quick Looks
- Support Conditions: U.S. requires renunciation of terrorism and protection of rights for minorities and women.
- Focus Areas: Destruction of chemical weapons and prevention of terrorism bases in Syria.
- Rebel Group HTS: U.S. open to dialogue with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham despite its terrorist designation.
- Inclusive Transition: Emphasis on Syrian-led decision-making without foreign interference.
- Next Steps: Review of HTS designation possible if the group addresses U.S. concerns.
U.S. to Support Post-Assad Syrian Government Focused on Reform
Deep Look
The United States has announced its willingness to support a new Syrian government, laying out a set of clear conditions in the wake of President Bashar Assad’s ouster. Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a statement Tuesday outlining U.S. priorities, including the renunciation of terrorism, the destruction of chemical weapons, and the protection of minority and women’s rights.
Transitioning from Assad
The Assad regime collapsed over the weekend following a rapid offensive by the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which now holds significant sway in Syria. While the U.S. has long designated HTS as a “foreign terrorist organization,” the Biden administration has indicated a willingness to engage with the group under certain conditions.
Blinken stressed that the transition must prioritize inclusivity and transparency, ensuring Syrians decide their future without undue interference from foreign powers.
“The United States will recognize and fully support a future Syrian government that results from this process,” Blinken stated.
Conditions for U.S. Recognition
- Renunciation of Terrorism: The government must prevent Syria from serving as a base for terrorism or a threat to neighboring countries.
- Humanitarian Access: Facilitate the flow of aid to those in need.
- Chemical Weapons: Secure and destroy any remaining stockpiles of chemical or biological weapons.
- Rights Protection: Commit to safeguarding the rights of minorities and women.
Engagement with HTS
While HTS remains on the U.S. terrorist list, the State Department has left the door open for dialogue. Spokesman Matthew Miller clarified that legal pathways exist for U.S. officials to communicate with designated terrorist groups if it aligns with national interests.
The administration has also signaled that HTS’s designation could be reviewed if the group takes steps to address the reasons behind its terrorist status.
A Syrian-Led Future
Blinken reaffirmed the importance of Syrians leading the decision-making process for their future government. The U.S. is committed to supporting all of Syria’s diverse communities, providing assistance as needed to ensure a stable and inclusive transition.
