The Biden administration announced its readiness to support a new Syrian government that upholds minority rights, protects women, renounces terrorism, and dismantles chemical weapon stockpiles. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of a smooth transition post-Assad and urged an inclusive and transparent process for determining Syria’s future, with minimal external interference.
This commitment comes after the sudden collapse of Bashar Assad's regime, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group classified as a terrorist organization by the U.S. since 2012. While the State Department remains open to revisiting HTS's designation, discussions with the group aren't ruled out. Florida Rep. Mike Waltz, named as President-elect Donald Trump's national security adviser, noted cautious optimism about HTS's initial actions but highlighted ongoing scrutiny of its conduct.
Meanwhile, Israel has launched strikes targeting Syrian military and chemical facilities and taken control of a buffer zone in the Golan Heights, asserting national security imperatives. The U.S. expressed support for Israel's self-defense rights while reaffirming its stance on the 1974 Golan Heights disengagement agreement.
Read: Israel's Syrian buffer zone advance reveals both risks and opportunities
In parallel, Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, is engaging in discussions with Israeli officials to address the evolving Syrian situation and ongoing efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza. The U.S. hopes these developments will further isolate groups like Hamas and encourage negotiated solutions.
Source: With inputs from agencies