U.S. officials, engaging with the Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, aim to persuade it to govern inclusively to prevent further violence and regional destabilization.
Barbara Leaf, a senior official, noted that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham's leader Ahmed al-Shara showcased pragmatism in recent discussions but U.S. officials remain cautious of his intentions.
Despite offering moderate views on women's rights and minorities, concerns linger that al-Shara might manipulate this dialogue to gain international support and tighten authoritarian control.
U.S. officials draw parallels between the current situation in Syria and the Taliban's quick takeover in Afghanistan, remaining alert to similar patterns of power consolidation.
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