A planned news conference by US diplomats in Syria has been canceled due to security concerns, as confirmed by the US embassy. The details regarding these security issues remain undisclosed.
Officials did not clarify if a meeting occurred with the new Syrian leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa. Instead, a virtual briefing is scheduled for later today.
In a related development, the US military reported the elimination of an Islamic State (IS) leader in an airstrike conducted in Syria.
The US delegation, which recently arrived in Damascus, aimed to engage with representatives from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). This group recently overthrew the Bashar al-Assad regime, yet it continues to be recognized by Washington as a terrorist entity.
This visit marks the first formal diplomatic presence from the US in Damascus in over ten years, highlighting the significant political changes underway since the ousting of Assad.
It also reflects the urgency from the US and European nations, alongside Arab countries, to influence the formation of Syria’s new governance structure.
Recent visits from delegations representing the UN, UK, France, and Germany have also taken place, intensifying diplomatic efforts in the region.
The US delegation includes senior officials like the Assistant Secretary of State and the Presidential envoy for hostages.
A State Department spokesperson previously noted that the delegation plans to engage with Syrian citizens, including civil society members and activists, to discuss their aspirations for the country’s future and explore how the US can assist.
This meeting indicates a willingness to engage with HTS, despite its terrorist designation, while also pushing for a transition towards an inclusive form of governance.
Washington appears to be outlining conditions that would need to be met before considering removing HTS from the terrorist list, a move that could significantly ease sanctions on Damascus.
The officials also aim to gather information regarding American journalist Austin Tice, who was abducted in Damascus in 2012.
Meanwhile, US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the elimination of IS leader Abu Yusif and two associates in an airstrike in Dayr az Zawr Province, a region previously under the control of the Assad regime and Russian allies.
General Michael Erik Kurilla emphasized that the US will not allow IS to exploit the current instability in Syria and reconstitute, warning that the group aims to release over 8,000 detained militants in the area.
