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US State Department Sets Criteria for Dealing with Syrian Interim Authorities
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The American demands indicate Washington's desire to limit Iranian influence in Syria and ensure regional security, while emphasizing the necessity of protecting minority rights
US State Department spokesperson Tammy Brose stated that the United States will determine its policy toward Syria after evaluating the actions of the new government. The shift in American policy depends primarily on Damascus' commitment to the standards set by Washington.
Brose emphasized that the United States is closely following the formation of a new government in Syria, expressing hope that the announcement would be "a positive step toward an inclusive and representative state." This statement reflects a cautious approach from the American administration, which shows conditional openness to the changes taking place in Damascus.
Brose explained: "The Syrian interim authorities must completely reject and suppress terrorism, remove foreign terrorists from any official positions, and deprive Iran and its proxies of using Syrian territory." It appears that combating Iranian influence in Syria constitutes a top priority for US policy in the region.
She continued: "The Syrian interim authorities must completely destroy chemical weapons, assist in the search for American citizens and others missing in Syria, and ensure the safety of religious and ethnic minorities." These demands reflect ongoing security and humanitarian concerns that affect Washington's vision of the Syrian situation.
She confirmed that "the United States will continue to assess the behavior of the interim authorities and determine its additional actions toward Damascus based on the measures they will take." This position reflects a pragmatic approach followed by the American administration, linking any easing of sanctions to tangible actions by the Syrian authorities.
On March 30, Syria's interim president Ahmad al-Shara announced the formation of a new government comprising 23 ministers. Al-Shara himself will lead the government's work, as all executive powers in the country are concentrated in his hands according to the constitutional declaration. This development represents an important transitional phase that could open the door to changes in Syria's international relations if American requirements are met.
