UK considers changing terrorist status of HTS rebels after Assad's fall in Syria

Syrians are experiencing a hopeful yet uncertain future after rebels captured Damascus and President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia. This marks a significant shift following 13 years of civil war and Assad's long rule. The UK government is considering changing the terrorist designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the rebel group that played a key role in Assad's ousting. A Labour minister stated that the decision will depend on HTS's future actions and statements regarding minority protections. HTS remains classified as a terrorist group by the US, Turkey, and the UN. The group has been attempting to improve its image to gain international support as it faces the challenge of rebuilding Syria after years of conflict.