US engages with Syria’s new leadership, drops bounty on HTS chief

The United States has withdrawn its long-standing bounty on Ahmed Al Sharaa, the leader of Syria’s Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS), after a groundbreaking diplomatic meeting in Damascus.

Barbara Leaf, Washington’s top diplomat for the Middle East, described the encounter as a “significant step” toward addressing regional security concerns and fostering stability.

“Based on our discussion, I told him we would not be pursuing the Rewards for Justice reward offer,” Leaf told reporters. She explained the rationale, stating, “It’s a little incoherent, then, to have a bounty on the guy’s head after he’s committed to combating terrorism and rebuilding regional trust.”

The meeting marks the first formal mission by US diplomats to Syria’s capital since the early years of the civil war, following the December 8 offensive that toppled President Bashar Al Assad. HTS, a group previously rooted in Al Qaeda’s Syria branch, led the operation, prompting Washington to cautiously approach the new leadership.

Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmed Al Sharaa, issued a statement emphasizing his government’s commitment to regional peace: “The Syrian people stand at an equal distance from all countries and parties in the region. Syria rejects any polarisation and seeks partnerships that benefit all.”

Leaf stressed the importance of Sharaa’s pledges, particularly in combating terrorism. “I told him of the critical need to ensure terrorist groups cannot pose a threat inside of Syria or externally, including to the US and our partners in the region,” she said. “Ahmed Al Sharaa committed to this. Now, we will look for actions that reflect these promises.”

The US delegation, which included Roger Carstens, a key official addressing the issue of Israeli prisoners in Hamas captivity, also engaged with civil society leaders, activists, and Syria’s White Helmet rescuers. “Their voices are critical to shaping the future of Syria,” Leaf noted.

The US Embassy commemorated victims of Assad’s regime during the visit, sharing a photograph of Leaf laying a memorial wreath. “The US commitment to hold accountable those responsible for these atrocities is unwavering,” the embassy said in a statement.

### New Foreign Minister Appointed

In a move signaling diplomatic normalization, Syria’s General Command announced the appointment of Asaad Hassan Al Shibani as foreign minister. A source within the new administration called this “a step toward establishing international relations that bring peace and stability.”

Sharaa’s leadership has been characterized by active engagement with international figures, including hosting the UN’s Syria envoy and US officials. Leaf highlighted the importance of continued dialogue, stating, “We are clear-eyed about the challenges ahead, but this is a moment to test new opportunities.”

### Turkiye’s Role in the Region

The talks come amid heightened tensions between Turkiye and Kurdish-led forces in Syria. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated his stance against groups he considers a threat to Syria’s territorial unity. “Daesh, the PKK, and their affiliates — which threaten the survival of Syria — must be eradicated,” Erdogan said after a summit in Cairo.

Leaf acknowledged the complexity of the situation and urged restraint. “We are advocating for a ceasefire between Turkish-backed forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to prevent further destabilization in the region, especially around Kobane,” she said.

This diplomatic breakthrough between the US and Syria’s new leadership signals a potential turning point in the region. However, Leaf emphasized, “Words are important, but we will judge this partnership by tangible progress.”