Berlin says Syria's HTS will be judged by its treatment of minorities

A German foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a former al Qaeda affiliate that spearheaded a lightning advance that toppled the Syrian regime, will be judged by its treatment of minorities.

“In recent months and years, HTS has endeavored to distance itself from its jihadist origins and to build up civilian structures,” the spokesperson said.

“Whether these efforts can now be taken seriously will be seen in particular in the treatment of civilians and especially minorities in the areas they now control,” the spokesperson added. (Reuters)