(Commonwealth_Europe) The United Kingdom is contemplating the possibility of lifting its ban on the Syrian militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a key player in the conflict that led to the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. HTS was designated a terrorist organization by the UK in 2017 due to its links with al-Qaeda. However, UK officials have suggested that the country’s position may change, depending on the evolving political situation in Syria.
Pat McFadden, the UK Cabinet Office Minister, stated that the government could make a “relatively swift decision” to remove the ban if the situation in Syria continues to stabilize. He clarified that the decision would primarily hinge on the concrete actions that HTS takes to support its statements about protecting minorities and citizens. McFadden noted the unpredictable nature of the situation, with no certainty about what will unfold shortly. While HTS leader Abu Muhammad al-Jolani has recently adopted a more moderate tone, the international community, including the UK, remains cautious and is closely monitoring the group’s actions. The former Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi appointed Jolani, who has been presenting a more conciliatory image, but his leadership’s impact on the ground remains uncertain.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has welcomed the fall of the Assad regime, describing it as the end of a “barbaric” dictatorship. He emphasized the importance of finding a political resolution to the conflict and restoring peace and stability to Syria. While in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on December 9, 2024, Starmer reiterated the need to protect civilians and minorities and to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those in need. His remarks reflect the UK’s broader regional foreign policy objectives, which aim to address both the humanitarian crisis and the ongoing political instability in Syria.
Meanwhile, McFadden also addressed the issue of Asma al-Assad, the British wife of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. According to McFadden, Asma al-Assad has not made any request to return to the UK, nor does it appear likely she will shortly. Russia has granted political asylum to the Assad family, including Asma, where they currently reside. Asma, who was born in London and worked as an investment banker, is the daughter of a Syrian diplomat and a cardiologist. Before the Syrian conflict escalated, she lived in the suburbs of London.
The potential shift in the UK’s stance on HTS highlights the complexity of the ongoing Syrian conflict and reflects the international community’s evolving approach to the region. The UK’s decision, particularly concerning HTS, will likely depend on how the situation in Syria unfolds in the coming months and whether the group, under Jolani’s leadership, can demonstrate its commitment to peace and the protection of civilians. As the situation remains fluid, the international community continues to evaluate the best course of action, balancing political considerations with humanitarian priorities.
