Following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, the European Union (EU) faces the challenge of engaging with Syria's new leadership without formally recognizing the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which is still regarded as a terrorist organization. The EU is tentatively opening communication channels with the HTS-led administration to explore possibilities for stabilizing the country and ensuring the protection of minority rights, including Christians and Kurds.
Germany plays a pivotal role in this diplomatic approach, with Michael Ohnmacht appointed as an EU representative to Damascus and Tobias Lindner serving as Special Coordinator for Syria. Amidst these developments, German diplomats are actively engaging with HTS representatives, focusing on a transitional government that includes all societal groups and protects minority rights. Despite HTS leader Muhammad al-Dscholani's attempts to present a more statesmanlike image, significant concerns about the group's connection to Al-Qaeda persist.
The EU's approach includes conditions such as the closure of Russian military bases in Syria and adherence to human rights, particularly concerning minorities and women, before any sanctions are lifted. Meanwhile, HTS promises to disband its militant factions, integrating them into the state army, and pledges to support a Syrian-led political process.
As the EU navigates this complex situation, it remains cautious about Russia's influence in the region and is keen to avoid scenarios similar to Libya or Afghanistan. While the EU maintains its sanctions on Syria, there is ongoing dialogue about potential easing if positive steps are observed from the new Syrian leadership. This diplomatic balancing act underscores the EU's strategic interest in ensuring stability and human rights in Syria while preventing further geopolitical entanglements.
