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<p>The Assad regime crumbles, the Biden administration has intensified efforts to secure Syria's chemical weapons stockpile while maintaining U.S. military presence to counter the persistent ISIS threat. These parallel priorities underscore Washington's focus on averting a dual crisis: the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the resurgence of terrorism in the volatile region.</p>
<p>U.S. officials have confirmed heightened surveillance of Syria's chemical weapons, emphasising their commitment to preventing these assets from falling into hostile hands. A senior U.S. official, speaking anonymously, stated that American intelligence retains "good fidelity" on Syria&rsquo;s chemical weapons inventory, including lethal agents and chlorine stores. Regional partners are collaborating in a multinational effort to secure these arsenals as rebel forces approach Damascus.</p>
<p>President Joe Biden, in a national address, pledged continued U.S. troop presence in Syria, emphasising their role in stabilising the region and maintaining control over detention facilities housing ISIS operatives. Highlighting the importance of these missions, Biden assured that securing Syria&rsquo;s sovereignty and preventing further destabilisation remain top priorities.</p>
<p>The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) released a statement affirming its relentless operations against ISIS, reporting over 75 targeted strikes on ISIS leaders, operatives, and camps this year. General Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander, delivered a stern warning to organisations operating in Syria: &ldquo;All organisations in Syria should know that we will hold them accountable if they partner with or support ISIS in any way.&rdquo; This unequivocal stance signals a robust U.S. resolve to prevent ISIS's resurgence, even as broader efforts focus on the chemical weapons threat.</p>
<p>Amid these developments, rebel groups advancing on Assad&rsquo;s stronghold have made overtures to the international community, pledging responsible management of captured military installations. A statement from their joint war room expressed a willingness to cooperate with international monitors, reflecting a shift in priorities as global scrutiny intensifies.</p>
<p>In an unprecedented move, the U.S. has opened communication channels with opposition groups, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), despite their controversial pasts. This pragmatic step reflects the complex realities of post-Assad Syria and the necessity of engaging all actors to mitigate risks associated with a power vacuum.</p>
<p>Biden&rsquo;s nuanced messaging walked a careful line between celebrating Assad's downfall&mdash;described as "a fundamental act of justice"&mdash;and cautioning against the emergence of new authoritarian forces. He pointedly acknowledged the sacrifices of opposition forces while emphasising their obligations to uphold human rights and avoid repeating past abuses.</p>
<p>The ongoing crisis highlights two urgent priorities for the international community: securing Syria&rsquo;s chemical weapons and containing ISIS. The success of these efforts will shape whether Syria&rsquo;s transition heralds stability or plunges the region into deeper chaos, with both outcomes carrying profound implications for global security</p>
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US Fighter planes carrying air strikes on targeted locations in Syria

Biden administration doubles down on securing Syria amidst Assad’s collapse

America Strikes Syria Amid Renewed Commitment to Stability

Biden administration doubles down on securing Syria amidst Assad’s collapse

December 9, 2024 | 11:25 IST