The United Nations Security Council has reaffirmed the designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) as a terrorist group, a classification imposed since May 2014 due to its relationship with Al Qaeda. This decision, made amidst the prolonged civil conflict in Syria, could complicate international efforts led by the UN to achieve lasting peace in the country, which has been devastated by years of war.
Resolution 2254, unanimously adopted in 2015, demands that member states take action to prevent terrorist acts by the Al-Nusra Front, HTS’s predecessor. The designation of HTS as a terrorist group carries international sanctions, including asset freezes and travel bans, raising questions about its impact on building strong institutions in Syria. Kiho Cha, a senior UN official, highlighted that these sanctions allow for humanitarian exemptions, introduced to facilitate the work of organizations in northwest Syria without fear of sanctions for inadvertent violations.
Adam Abdelmoula, the UN coordinator in Syria, noted that the organization faces no restrictions in engaging with HTS and that the legitimacy of groups is a matter for member states, not the UN. Despite HTS being designated as a terrorist group, humanitarian operations have continued independently, impartially, and neutrally, ensuring assistance to the affected population in areas controlled by HTS. Abdelmoula confirmed that working relationships with HTS have enabled the delivery of essential aid, underscoring the need to keep dialogue open to continue humanitarian support.
The potential removal of HTS from the terrorist list remains a topic of debate. While some member states may be considering this option, it has not been officially proposed yet. The political and humanitarian consequences of any change in this designation are of significant importance to international actors committed to the future of Syria.
via: MiMub in Spanish
