Syrian Democratic Forces engaging with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Syria

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are preparing to engage with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, currently in charge of Syria. HTS recently took over Damascus, prompting Bashar Assad to flee to Russia. The SDF is reaching out to HTS as they face attacks from the Syrian National Army (SNA) backed by Turkey. The SDF is also concerned about the resurgence of ISIS in the region and the security of ISIS prisons under their control.

Syria's New Interim Prime Minister and Concerns About Extremism

Syria's new interim Prime Minister Mohammad al-Bashir has raised concerns by displaying a flag associated with Sunni Islamist fighters, leading to questions about the future of moderation and tolerance in the country. The rebel organization Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which led the charge into Damascus, is now overseeing Syria's political transformation. There are worries about the group's past ties to terrorism and its commitment to religious and sectarian diversity in the country.