US delegation arrives in Damascus for talks with Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham leader

The U.S. State Department announced that a delegation of American diplomats has arrived in Damascus to hold direct talks with the new rulers under the leadership of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. The French News Agency reported that the delegation visited the residence of Ahmad Shaara, the leader of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham.

This marks the first official diplomatic visit by the United States to Damascus since the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011.

The American diplomats are set to meet with representatives of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, activists, civil society groups, and minorities.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department stated that the delegation will discuss with Syrians their views on the future of their country and how the United States can assist in supporting them.

The American delegation hopes to gather clues regarding missing Americans.

On Friday, December 20, the French News Agency reported that since the fall of Assad, Ahmad Shaara, the leader of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, has adopted a conciliatory tone, calling for Syrian unity, the protection of minorities, and the dissolution of rebel groups.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that it is too early to assess Ahmad Shaara’s sincerity, and any reduction in sanctions will depend on concrete actions.

This development marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Syria, signaling potential engagement with key Islamist groups in the region. Although it remains uncertain whether this dialogue will lead to tangible outcomes, the discussions could play a pivotal role in shaping Syria’s future and U.S.-Syria relations.

The American delegation’s focus on supporting Syria’s future and seeking information about missing Americans also underscores the U.S. commitment to resolving humanitarian concerns in the country. This visit, though historic, reflects the complexities of post-war diplomacy and the balancing act between engaging with new leadership and maintaining pressure on Syria’s rulers.

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