The call for moderation from HTS reflects ongoing concerns about governance and international relations in conflict zones.
Blinken's remarks underscore the importance of political engagement in resolving conflicts and preventing isolation.
The comparison between HTS and the Taliban highlights the challenges faced by groups in power after conflicts, particularly regarding international legitimacy.
If HTS does not adapt its approach, it may face similar isolation as the Taliban, limiting its ability to govern effectively.
The formation of a non-sectarian government in Syria could lead to improved relations with the international community and potential aid.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) to avoid the international isolation faced by the Taliban by fulfilling its promises of moderation. Speaking at the Council on Foreign Relations, Blinken emphasized that HTS must learn from the Taliban's experience, where initial attempts at moderation led to eventual isolation due to their actions. He highlighted the importance of engaging in a political process, referencing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's refusal to do so as a factor in his regime's decline. Blinken called for the establishment of a non-sectarian Syrian government that safeguards minority rights and addresses security issues, including the fight against ISIS and the elimination of chemical weapons. He noted that the Taliban, despite initial openness, reverted to strict Islamic law and increased restrictions on women after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, resulting in no international recognition of their government.
