U.S. Officials Visit Damascus for Diplomatic Mission

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
Senior U.S. officials visit Damascus for first diplomatic mission since Assad's fall to discuss transition to inclusive Syrian government and search for missing American citizens. The delegation meets with rebel group HTS and other Syrian parties to gather information and support their vision for the country's future.

Key Points

  • Delegation led by senior State Department official Barbara Leaf
  • Focus on transition to inclusive Syrian government and search for missing citizens
  • Biden administration under pressure to find Austin Tice abducted 12 years ago
  • Delegation also engages with civil society, activists, and other Syrians for support
  • Exploration of removing HTS from terrorist list with conditions

Pros

  • Engagement in diplomatic efforts to support transition in Syria
  • Focus on finding missing American citizens abducted under Assad regime

Cons

  • Meeting with U.S.-designated terrorist group HTS raises concerns