A breakthrough in Syria’s power transition has led to cooperation between the US and the new caretaker government. The move comes after one American, Travis Timmerman, was found south of Damascus, a development that marks a significant step forward in locating missing Americans.
The Assad regime’s collapse has prompted a military response from Israel, which has launched airstrikes at military targets across the country and deployed ground troops into the demilitarized buffer zone. However, the new Syrian government has announced its intention to dissolve the security forces and “close notorious prisons” of the toppled regime, according to a statement.
A joint delegation from Turkey and Qatar arrived in Damascus for talks with the caretaker Syrian government, while the US is working closely with Israel over its military actions in Syria. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Jordanian officials, discussing support for an inclusive transition to a new government in Syria.
The US has also expressed concerns about the battles in northern Syria, which could imperil efforts to prevent the Islamic State from finding a foothold in the region. Meanwhile, a ceasefire has been announced in the city of Manbij, where rebel forces are fighting the Syrian Democratic Forces.
The discovery of Travis Timmerman brings hope for locating missing Americans, including Austin Tice, who was abducted in 2012 and believed to be held by the Syrian government. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts ongoing to resolve outstanding issues.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/syria-israel-assad-war-russia-intl-hnk-12-12-24/index.html