UK considers changing terrorist status of HTS rebels after their control of Damascus

Syrian rebels have taken control of the capital, Damascus, leading to President Bashar al-Assad's flight to Russia. This marks a significant shift after 13 years of civil war and could reshape power dynamics in the region. The UK government is considering changing the terrorist designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the leading rebel group. A Labour minister indicated that the decision will depend on HTS's future actions regarding minority protections. HTS remains classified as a terrorist group by the US, Turkey, and the UN. The group is now tasked with rebuilding Syria, which has suffered extensive damage and requires substantial international aid.