HTS Leader Pledges Syria Will Not Threaten Arab Nations
Ahmad al-Shara, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has vowed that Syria will no longer pose a threat to neighboring Arab countries. In a recent interview with a pan-Arab newspaper, al-Shara expressed his desire to foster strong economic ties and emulate the development models of Gulf nations to boost Syria’s growth.
“We won’t allow Syria to attack or unsettle any Arab or Gulf country,” al-Shara stated. He emphasized that “the revolutionary period” had ended with the fall of the previous government and highlighted his administration’s commitment to constructive relationships and long-term peace. Al-Shara also mentioned that a nationwide dialogue is underway to draft a new constitution.
Historic Meeting with U.S. Officials
In a significant development, al-Shara met with senior U.S. diplomats in Damascus. This marks a notable shift in Western engagement with HTS. Western governments, including the United States, France, and the United Kingdom, are considering removing HTS’s terrorist designation.
U.S. officials outlined a set of principles for Syria’s future, emphasizing the importance of an inclusive government that respects minority rights and ensures that terrorist groups cannot pose a threat. Following the meeting, Barbara Leaf, a top Middle East diplomat at the U.S. State Department, commented that al-Shara “came across as pragmatic” and announced the removal of a $10 million bounty on his head.
Al-Shara, who was designated a terrorist in 2013, argued that the label was unfair and reiterated his opposition to the killing of innocent people. He previously led a military campaign that resulted in the fall of the Bashar al-Assad government on December 8.
UN Extends Peacekeeping Mission in Golan Heights
Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council has extended its peacekeeping mission in the Golan Heights for another six months due to concerns over escalating tensions in the demilitarized zone. The UN Disengagement Observer Force, present since 1974, expressed worry over military activities in the area, including Israeli air strikes in Syria and the presence of Israeli troops.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized that only UN peacekeepers should operate in the zone and called for a halt to violations of Syrian sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Security Council urged all parties to adhere to the 1974 ceasefire agreement to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of civilians and UN personnel.
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HTS leader pledges Syria will not pose threat to other Arab nations
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