Syria: ‘Negotiations with rebel groups come with challenges’

UK diplomats have met with the leader of the Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), following its ousting of President Bashar al-Assad more than a week ago.

Professor Harmonie Toros, Professor in Politics and International Relations, comments on the challenges of negotiations with rebel groups. Professor Toros has been researching negotiations and informal talks with non-state armed groups for 15 years, focusing in particular on negotiations with Islamist armed groups.

Professor Harmonie Toros said: “Negotiations with non-state armed groups, including those listed as terrorist groups, have some very specific characteristics. State and international officials often say they are worried about legitimising terrorism if they engage in negotiations with terrorist groups. This often overlooks the fact these groups are already seen as legitimate by sections of the territory they control. 

“The proscription of armed groups as terrorist organisations can complicate negotiations as in some cases their leaders are banned from travelling. Delisting a group often becomes part of the initial negotiations, as seen in the case of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. The HTS leadership has very clearly stated that sanctions against Syria and against their group have to be lifted. 

“One concerning aspect of the positions taken by HTS and some Western governments, including the UK, is that they are making statements that draw stark red lines. This stance tends to make the start of talks - even informal ones - more difficult.”