US diplomats in Syria to meet with new HTS authorities

US diplomats are in the Syrian capital of Damascus, where they plan to meet with representatives of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group that now rules but which Washington still considers a terrorist organization.

The visit followed delegations in recent days from the UN and other countries, including the UK, France and Germany.

This is the first official appearance of American diplomats in Damascus in more than a decade.

It is another sign of the dramatic changes taking place in Syria since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime more than a week ago, and the speed of efforts by the US and Europe, which are also relying on Arab countries to try to influence its governance.

The delegation of high-ranking officials includes Assistant Secretary of State Barbara Leaf, Roger Carstens, who is US President Joe Biden’s envoy for hostages, and Daniel Rubinstein, senior adviser to the Bureau of Near East Affairs.

“They will engage directly with the Syrian people, including members of civil society, activists, community members and other Syrian voices, about their vision for the future of their country and how the United States can help support them,” the state said. This is stated in the press secretary of the department.

They plan to meet with HTS officials to demonstrate a willingness to deal with the group, which the US still designates as a terrorist organization, but increasing pressure for it to transition to an inclusive, non-sectarian government.

Washington is effectively setting a number of conditions before considering delisting the group – a critical step that could help smooth the way to the lifting of sanctions that Damascus desperately needs.

Officials are seeking more information to help locate American journalist Austin Tice, who was kidnapped in Damascus in 2012.