US says terror designation doesn’t hinder talks with Syrian rebel group

He further explained that any potential review would hinge on HTS taking demonstrable steps to address the reasons behind its designation. “That would be based entirely on their actions,” Miller added.

Although the FTO designation carries significant sanctions, including a prohibition on providing “material support” to the group, Miller clarified that the label does not automatically bar US officials from engaging in discussions with HTS.

He cited past examples, such as the Trump administration’s negotiations with the Taliban during the withdrawal from Afghanistan. However, he acknowledged a distinction, noting that the Taliban has never been designated as an FTO but as a “specially designated terrorist organisation,” which carries less severe restrictions.

A senior US administration official, speaking anonymously, noted the significance of HTS in the region’s dynamics. “HTS will be an important component in what transpires in Syria, and the US needs to engage with them, appropriately, and with US interests in mind,” the official said, as reported by AP.

In a related development, US President Joe Biden held a phone conversation with Jordan’s King Abdullah II to discuss the unfolding situation in Syria and joint efforts to prevent Islamic State militants from capitalising on the recent developments. The White House revealed that their discussions also touched on US airstrikes in Syria targeting IS leaders and ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza.

According to a White House statement, Biden reiterated US support for Jordan’s stability, recognising its critical role in maintaining peace across the Middle East. Jordan, already hosting over a million Syrian refugees since the civil war began in 2011, is reportedly eager to avoid another refugee crisis following the collapse of Assad’s regime.

Meanwhile, US diplomatic activity in the region has intensified, with Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs John Bass and Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf visiting Jordan and Qatar for consultations with regional partners, the State Department confirmed.

Additionally, the US announced it had made arrangements with local groups to secure its dormant embassy compound in Damascus, which closed in 2012. Previously guarded by the Czech Embassy, which has now shut down operations in the Syrian capital, the compound’s current security arrangements were not disclosed by US officials.