The Biden administration postpones the decision to lift the classification of ‘Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham’ as a terrorist organization until the Trump era
American officials reported to the Washington Post that the administration of US President Joe Biden has decided to maintain the classification of “Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham” as a terrorist organization in Syria until the end of his term, provided that the final decision regarding lifting this classification will return to the administration of President-elect Donald Trump, which will assume power this year. month.
The classification of “Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham” as a terrorist organization is considered a major obstacle to Syria’s economic opportunities in the long term.
But American officials stressed that the Islamists, who attracted public attention at the end of last year by overthrowing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, must prove that they have severed their ties with extremist groups, especially Al-Qaeda, before lifting this classification can be considered.
One US official noted continued concerns about the inclusion of foreign fighters and other militants in positions within the Syrian Ministry of Defense, and said: “Actions will speak louder than words.”
Classifying “Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham” as a terrorist organization criminalizes the provision of material support or resources to it by American citizens, and also allows for the imposition of financial sanctions or the prosecution of those who violate these laws.
Despite the Biden administration maintaining the designation, the US government has eased many restrictions on Syria, aiming to stimulate the country’s recovery and build goodwill with its interim government, and the US Treasury has issued a general license allowing transactions with the Syrian government, including providing humanitarian services. .
US Deputy Secretary of the Treasury, Wally Adeyemo, said that the end of Bashar al-Assad’s rule provides a unique opportunity to rebuild Syria, noting that the Treasury will continue to support humanitarian aid during the transitional period.
American diplomats also visited Syria to hold talks with the group, describing these steps as proactive and wise. One American official confirmed that lifting the classification of “Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham” as a terrorist organization requires time and long efforts.
Robert Ford, the former US ambassador to Syria, said that the US government must provide clear criteria for Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham on how to get off the list, noting that the group must begin discussing these criteria.
Trump adviser Rick Grenell described the armed groups that ousted Assad as “a mix of different types of people,” adding in an interview that these groups would be judged on their actions.
