Western Nations initiate talks with Syria’s new leadership after Assad’s fall
text_fieldsGermany, France and several Western nations have initiated talks with representatives of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) in Damascus, marking a significant shift in diplomatic engagements following the Islamist group’s pivotal role in the recent overthrow of Syria’s Bashar Assad.
Germany’s foreign ministry confirmed on Tuesday that its diplomats would meet HTS-appointed interim government officials, joining similar efforts by the United States and Britain. The discussions are centered on Syria’s transitional process and safeguarding minority rights.
“The possibilities of establishing a diplomatic presence in Damascus are also being explored,” a foreign ministry spokesperson said, while noting that Germany continues to monitor HTS closely “due to its origins in Al-Qaeda ideology.”
“So far, they have acted prudently,” the spokesperson added, referring to the group’s leadership in Assad’s ouster, which brought an end to Syria’s 13-year civil war.
France is also taking steps to reestablish its presence. French special envoy for Syria, Jean-Francois Guillaume, reiterated his country’s commitment to supporting Syrians during the transitional period.
“France is ready to stand with Syrians during this transition, which we hope will be peaceful,” Guillaume told journalists. An AFP journalist reported seeing the French flag raised at the French Embassy entrance in Damascus for the first time since its closure in 2012.
The developments have renewed domestic debates in Germany over asylum policies, as the country absorbed nearly one million Syrian refugees during the conflict. The German government has paused asylum procedures for Syrians pending reassessment of conditions in their homeland.
Germany is reportedly coordinating its approach with international partners, including France, the United States, Britain and several Arab states.
Italy has also welcomed the Assad regime’s fall. The Italian Prime Minister described it as "good news" and signaled readiness to engage with Syria’s emerging leadership. While acknowledging encouraging early steps from Syria’s interim government, the Prime Minister called for caution in future engagements.
United Nations humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher echoed similar optimism after meeting Syria’s new leaders, including HTS leader Abu Mohammed Al-Golani, now using his real name, Ahmed Al-Sharaa.
“I’m encouraged,” Fletcher said on X, adding that there is “a basis for an ambitious scale-up of vital humanitarian support.” He described the situation as a “cautious hope for Syria.”
The end of Syria’s prolonged conflict has drawn a mix of cautious optimism and measured diplomacy as global actors respond to the country’s evolving political landscape.