UK Foreign Secretary on HTS: 'We have diplomatic contact'

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has announced that Britain has established "diplomatic contact" with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which the UK designates as a terrorist organization.

According to a report by the BBC, Lammy stated that they have established diplomatic contact with HTS, the group leading the forces that toppled the Baath regime in Syria, saying, "The UK can engage in diplomatic contacts, and as one would expect, we have diplomatic contact."

WANTS AN INCLUSIVE STATE IN SYRIA

Pointing out that they want to see an inclusive government in Syria that represents everyone, Lammy said, "We want chemical weapons to be brought under control, not to be used, and for the violence not to continue."

ALL CHANNELS ARE BEING USED

Explaining that they are using all available channels for this reason, Lammy assessed, "These are diplomatic channels and channels conducted by intelligence. We are looking for ways to be in contact with HTS where necessary."

In a statement on December 9, David Lammy had noted that HTS remains on the UK's list of terrorist organizations, a fact that compels the UK to act with caution.

"THEY GAVE PROMISES"

Reminding that HTS has provided assurances to minorities, Lammy had said, "They also promised the international community cooperation regarding chemical weapons. We will judge HTS by its actions and will closely monitor how they treat civilians in areas controlled by other parties to the conflict."

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had confirmed that the US has also established direct contact with HTS, which is also on the US list of terrorist organizations.

News Source: AA