U.S. officials met with Syria’s interim authorities to discuss combating ISIS and preventing Iranian resurgence. Approximately 2,000 troops operate in northeastern Syria, primarily with the SDF. This meeting, part of broader diplomatic outreach, highlights U.S. concerns regarding security and political representation in the post-Assad era.
On Tuesday, U.S. officials engaged in discussions with Syria’s interim authorities, highlighting critical ongoing efforts to combat ISIS. Currently, approximately 2,000 U.S. troops are stationed in northeastern Syria as part of the Global Coalition against ISIS, primarily collaborating with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The U.S. Embassy in Damascus indicated that the meeting focused on crucial matters including the protection of American citizens, determining the whereabouts of those who have disappeared, maintaining the operations against ISIS, and curbing Iran’s influence in the region.
Earlier this month marked the U.S.’s first formal delegation visit to Damascus since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, led by Barbara Leaf, the State Department’s top Middle East diplomat. Leaf conferred with Ahmad Al-Sharaa, Syria’s new leader and head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), assuring him that the U.S. would cease to offer a bounty for his capture. During these discussions, the necessity of preventing terrorist groups from posing a threat within Syria was emphasized. It is noteworthy that after Al-Assad was ousted on December 8, Western powers, including the U.S., expressed their approval of HTS-led factions overthrowing his regime after a swift military operation.
The ongoing conflict in Syria has attracted international attention, particularly regarding the roles of the U.S., ISIS, and Iran. The U.S. has maintained a military presence in northern Syria to combat ISIS and to support local forces, specifically the SDF. With the recent shift in governance following Bashar al-Assad’s regime, there is heightened interest in ensuring that extremist groups do not regain a foothold in the region, while also addressing the growing influence of Iran.
The recent meeting between U.S. officials and Syria’s interim authorities underscores the continued commitment of the United States to counter ISIS and prevent the resurgence of Iranian influence in Syria. Key discussions focused on citizen security, the political representation of all Syrians, and the U.S. stance on terrorist activities in the region. These discussions reflect a strategic approach by the U.S. in navigating the complexities of post-Assad Syria.
Original Source: shafaq.com
