Sun Jan 05 17:11:30 UTC 2025: ## Syria’s New Islamist Government Seeks International Recognition Amidst Economic Crisis

**Doha, Qatar –** Syria’s newly installed Islamist government, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is actively pursuing diplomatic relations with regional and international powers following the December ouster of President Bashar al-Assad. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani held talks with his Qatari counterpart and the Qatari Prime Minister in Doha on Sunday, January 5th, 2025. This follows meetings with Saudi Arabia and European diplomats earlier in the week.

The HTS government, which seized power after a swift insurgency, is seeking to lift international sanctions imposed on the country during the years of civil war. These sanctions, coupled with the economic devastation caused by the conflict (estimated to have killed 500,000 people), have left approximately 90% of Syrians living in poverty.

Minister al-Shibani stated that the Syrian government is urging the United States to lift sanctions, citing the crippling impact on the civilian population. He also announced plans for upcoming visits to Jordan and the UAE to further develop strategic partnerships and support Syria’s economic recovery.

HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa has pledged a national dialogue summit aimed at creating a new political roadmap, including the drafting of a new constitution and elections. He has also promised to dissolve HTS after the summit. However, concerns remain within the international community about the treatment of religious minorities and women under the new Islamist regime.

While Qatar, a former supporter of anti-Assad groups, engaged with the new Syrian government, the response from the West remains cautious. The US has yet to indicate whether it will lift sanctions, and European nations have expressed hesitation due to human rights concerns. The future of Syria, therefore, remains uncertain as the new government navigates the complex landscape of international relations amidst a dire economic crisis.

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