Secretary of State Antony Blinken Highlights US Role in Syria’s Transition, Reiterates Commitment to Finding Missing Journalist
Washington, DC [US], December 15: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has confirmed direct communication with Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which recently toppled the decades-long regime of Bashar al-Assad and seized control of Damascus. Blinken also reaffirmed the US commitment to locating American journalist Austin Tice, missing in Syria since 2012.
“We’ve been in contact with HTS and other parties, emphasizing the importance of finding Austin Tice and bringing him home,” Blinken stated during a press conference in Jordan. “We’ve also shared principles for our ongoing support, principles adopted by countries across the region.”
Power Shift in Syria
The dramatic overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime marks a turning point in Syria’s history. Following HTS’s takeover, the opposition named Mohammed al-Bashir as interim Prime Minister. Al-Bashir has prioritized the repatriation of millions of Syrian refugees and pledged to collaborate with former Assad regime officials to restore public services.
“We are working to bring back stability and calm to Syria,” al-Bashir said, outlining his administration’s goals.
US Policy and Regional Dynamics
Blinken, on an unannounced tour of the Middle East, visited Iraq and Turkiye to discuss Syria’s future. In Baghdad, he met Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, emphasizing the need for Syria’s transition to democracy. “Syria’s transition must be inclusive, nonsectarian, and protective of all minorities,” Blinken said, adding that Syria must not become a platform for terrorism.
In Turkiye, Blinken discussed countering the resurgence of ISIL and reiterated the importance of a “Syria-led” and “Syrian-owned” transition during his meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.
Russian Withdrawal and US Position
Reports of Russian military withdrawals from Syria have added to the shifting geopolitical landscape. While Blinken acknowledged the reports, he refrained from offering specifics, stating that further inquiries should be directed to other administration officials.
Future Challenges for Syria
As the dust settles on Assad’s departure, Syria faces immense challenges, including rebuilding public institutions and addressing the needs of displaced populations. The international community, led by the US, is closely monitoring the developments, urging a peaceful and inclusive path forward.
With the interim leadership aiming to stabilize Syria and repatriate refugees, the coming months will determine whether the country can transition from dictatorship to a functional democracy while safeguarding the rights of all its citizens.