New Syrian leader met top US diplomats in Damascus

New Syrian leader to meet the US top diplomas

Senior US diplomats met Ahmed al-Sharaa, the leader of the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), in Damascus. This was the first formal meeting between the US and the man now leading Syria after his group overthrew President Bashar al-Assad two weeks ago.

The talks were described as “good” and “productive” by Barbara Leaf, the top US diplomat for the Middle East. She announced that the US has decided to lift a $10 million bounty on Al-Sharaa. This decision came after he promised to block terrorist groups in Syria from threatening the US or its neighbors. “Ahmed al-Sharaa committed to this,” Leaf said.

The End of Assad Rule in Syria

Bashar al-Assad, who ruled Syria for over 20 years, fled earlier this month and is now in Russia. His removal ended decades of his family’s control over the country. The US and many Syrians welcomed Assad’s departure but remained cautious about what comes next.

Al-Sharaa, once a leader in an al-Qaeda affiliate, now leads HTS, a group still labeled as a terrorist organization by the US. However, during the meeting, he appeared “pragmatic,” according to Leaf.

Focus on Political Tradition

The US urged Al-Sharaa to ensure Syria’s new government would be inclusive and protect minority rights. Leaf emphasized that the US would judge HTS by its actions, not just its words.

The Western governments, including France and Britain, have also started arranging talks with HTS. Though, they are still debating whether to remove the group’s terrorist designation.

Uncertain Future for Syria

While Assad’s fall has brought hope for change, there is uncertainty about HTS’s next steps. Many wonders if the group will enforce strict Islamic rule or work toward a more democratic Syria.

The US has laid out key principles for Syria’s political future, including fairness, inclusivity, and regional stability. For now, the focus is on ensuring HTS keeps its promise to stop any terrorist threats.

This meeting marks a major shift in U.S. policy toward Syria and a new chapter for the country. However, Syria’s future remains unclear as the world waits to see how its new leaders handle the challenges ahead.

Read more: UN envoy to Syria warns conflict ‘not ended yet’ – News Globe

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