In a significant diplomatic mission aimed at supporting Syria’s long-term peace and stability, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Barbara A. Leaf, Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens, and Ambassador Daniel Rubinstein traveled to Damascus this week for high-level meetings with Syrian civil society, humanitarian leaders, and political representatives. The visit was designed to engage key stakeholders in Syria’s future, including discussions on political transition, governance, and the critical issue of U.S. citizens missing in the country.
The delegation’s visit underscores the United States’ continued commitment to supporting an inclusive, Syrian-led political transition as outlined in United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254. Their discussions also focused on how the U.S. can partner with Syrians to help shape a future of peace, democracy, and respect for human rights.
A Vision for Syria’s Future: Inclusivity and Governance
During the visit, Assistant Secretary Leaf emphasized the U.S. government’s unwavering support for a political transition in Syria that is inclusive, representative, and non-sectarian. She reaffirmed that the transition process should be led and owned by Syrians, with the goal of establishing a governance system that adheres to international standards of transparency and accountability.
“The future of Syria must be shaped by its people. The United States stands firm in its support for a political process that is inclusive, transparent, and that respects the rights of all Syrians, no matter their background,” Assistant Secretary Leaf stated. “This transition should lead to credible and accountable governance that can bring lasting peace and stability to Syria.”
The U.S. officials also highlighted the importance of moving toward a comprehensive, political solution that addresses the root causes of the Syrian conflict and promotes the values of democracy and human rights. The delegation’s engagements with Syrian civil society organizations were aimed at gathering input and reinforcing the importance of a process that reflects the will and needs of all Syrians.
Addressing the Ongoing Crisis: The Fate of Missing U.S. Citizens
In addition to their broader political and humanitarian discussions, the U.S. delegation made it clear that resolving the fate of U.S. citizens missing in Syria remains a top priority. Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens led efforts to underscore the United States’ commitment to locating and bringing home those held hostage, including Austin Tice, an American journalist who has been missing in Syria since 2012.
“The United States will continue to do everything in its power to bring our citizens home. We will not rest until Austin Tice, and all missing Americans, are safely returned to their families,” Carstens remarked during the visit. The U.S. government has worked persistently over the years to secure Tice’s release, with Carstens reiterating the importance of cooperation with Syrian authorities and other regional actors in locating and freeing U.S. citizens held in Syria.
Discussions with HTS: A Path Forward for Syria
During their trip, the U.S. delegation also held talks with representatives of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a key actor in Syria’s northwest. These discussions centered on transition principles and political processes aimed at fostering a future Syria that is stable, non-sectarian, and committed to the protection of human rights.
While HTS is a controversial group, the U.S. officials made clear that the discussions focused on areas of common interest, particularly regarding the humanitarian and security challenges in Syria. The delegation underscored the importance of upholding international law, including the protection of civilians, and the need for all Syrian groups to participate in a meaningful political process.
U.S. Commitment to Syrian People
In addition to political and security concerns, the U.S. delegation expressed deep concern for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria. More than a decade of conflict has left millions of Syrians in dire need of assistance, with millions displaced both within the country and abroad. The United States remains one of the largest donors of humanitarian aid to Syria, working alongside international partners to alleviate suffering and promote recovery in affected areas.
Ambassador Rubinstein, who has led U.S. diplomatic efforts in the region, emphasized the U.S. commitment to supporting the Syrian people through both humanitarian aid and efforts aimed at fostering peace and stability.
“The United States remains committed to providing vital humanitarian assistance to the Syrian people,” Ambassador Rubinstein said. “We will continue to stand with them as they work to rebuild their country and create a better future.”
Looking Ahead: A Path Toward Peace
As the U.S. delegation concluded its visit, the message was clear: the United States is committed to helping Syria chart a course toward a brighter, more stable future. This means supporting an inclusive political process, holding accountable those responsible for human rights violations, and working relentlessly to bring missing Americans home.
While the road to peace and stability in Syria remains challenging, the U.S. officials left Damascus with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The message from the U.S. government was unequivocal: the United States will continue to support the Syrian people in their pursuit of peace, democracy, and justice.