Damascus: The United States has announced the withdrawal of a USD 10 million bounty for the capture of Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s new leader and head of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, following discussions in Damascus, marking the first visit by US officials to Syria since the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad earlier this month.
Barbara Leaf, Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, disclosed the move after a meeting with al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Julani, and other officials from Syria’s transitional administration. Leaf noted that the US received “positive messages” during the talks, including assurances from HTS that it would prevent any terrorist threats. She explained, “Based on our discussion, I told him we would not be pursuing the Rewards for Justice reward offer that has been in effect for some years.”
The talks represent a significant shift in US diplomatic strategy toward Syria. HTS, which played a key role in removing Assad from power, was designated a “terrorist” group by the US in 2018 due to its ties with al-Qaeda. However, Leaf emphasized the need for inclusion in Syria’s transition, saying, “We fully support a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process that results in an inclusive and representative government which respects the rights of all Syrians, including women, and Syria’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.”
Although the US has not removed HTS’s terrorist designation, the discussions suggest a cautious approach to fostering stability. The designation imposes sanctions but does not prevent US officials from engaging in talks with the group.
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In addition to the bounty withdrawal, the discussions focused on resolving cases of missing Americans, particularly journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared near Damascus in 2012. HTS expressed willingness to assist in locating Tice, underscoring their commitment during the talks. “Again, not a quid pro quo, but a chance for the Americans and the Syrians to really talk about how they can work together in the weeks and months ahead,” said Al Jazeera’s Rosiland Jordan.
Meanwhile, the US military continues its operations in Syria, focusing on remnants of ISIL (ISIS). Recently, the US conducted an airstrike in Deir ez-Zor, killing an ISIL leader, Abu Yusif, also known as Mahmud. CENTCOM commander Erik Kurilla reiterated that the US, along with its regional allies, would not allow ISIS to reconstitute in Syria.
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Despite the evolving political situation, the US has kept approximately 2,000 troops stationed in Syria, with no immediate plans for withdrawal, given the ongoing threat posed by ISIS. Kurilla emphasized the urgency of preventing ISIS from regrouping and potentially freeing over 8,000 operatives detained in Syrian facilities.
Leaf’s visit marks a potential turning point in US-Syrian relations, navigating a complex balance between counterterrorism goals and supporting Syria’s political transition.
