Blinken says US has made ‘direct contact’ with Syria’s victorious HTS

The United States has made direct contact with Syria’s Hayat Tahrir al-Sham rebels despite designating them as terrorists, seeking a peaceful transition and pressing for the release of kidnapped journalist Austin Tice. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of an inclusive and representative government in Syria, with respect for all Syrians’ rights, as state institutions continue to provide essential services. Despite the terrorist designation, the US remains hopeful for a better future in Syria, acknowledging the challenges ahead and the determination of the Syrian people to shape their destiny.

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