Top US, UK diplomats press for urgent action on Syria, Gaza, Ukraine

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has held talks with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, addressing several critical international matters, including the situation in Syria, Gaza, Somalia, and Ukraine.

The two diplomats discussed the ongoing crisis in Syria, emphasizing the importance of upholding the principles of accountability and representation in the country's transition process, Caliber.Az reports, citing US Department of State.

Secretary Blinken reaffirmed US support for a Syrian government that is accountable to its people.

On the Gaza conflict, Blinken and Lammy highlighted the urgency of securing a ceasefire agreement that would facilitate the release of all hostages, stressing the need for swift action to prevent further delay.

The conversation also focused on the situation in Somalia, with both leaders calling for the finalization of a UN Security Council-authorised African Union-led mission to combat the Al-Shabab terrorist group and strengthen security in East Africa.

In regard to Ukraine, Blinken and Lammy underscored the importance of increasing security assistance, especially in light of Russia's decision to involve North Korea in supplying troops to support its ongoing war of aggression.

Moreover, Lammy has confirmed that the British government has had "diplomatic contact" with the Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), despite it remaining a proscribed terrorist organization. Lammy emphasized that such contact is conducted through diplomatic and intelligence channels, particularly in relation to securing chemical weapons and reducing violence in Syria.

Lammy's comments follow the UK’s announcement of a £50m humanitarian aid package for vulnerable Syrians, including refugees. While the contact does not imply a shift in the UK’s stance on HTS, which remains listed as a terrorist group, it signals a pragmatic approach based on the group’s actions.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also confirmed direct US contact with HTS, specifically regarding the fate of missing journalist Austin Tice. Both nations continue to advocate for an inclusive and accountable Syrian government, with Lammy stating that HTS’s proscribed status remains unchanged.

By Aghakazim Guliyev