A U.S. delegation, including Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens, Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf, and Senior Adviser Daniel Rubinstein, is in Damascus for the first time in over a decade. Their primary goals include gathering information on missing American citizens and engaging with various Syrian groups.

The visit is led by Rubinstein, a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience in Syrian affairs. He will facilitate discussions with Syrian citizens, civil society members, activists, and community representatives to understand their aspirations for the country’s future and explore avenues for U.S. support.

“They will be engaging directly with the Syrian people, including members of civil society, activists, members of different communities, and other Syrian voices,” a State Department spokesperson stated.

The delegation will also meet with representatives of ), a U.S.-designated terrorist group, to discuss transition principles agreed upon at the Aqaba Meetings in Jordan. These principles, as previously announced, emphasize a Syrian-led and inclusive political transition.

A key objective is to determine the fate of missing Americans, including journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared in 2012. The U.S. government, including the FBI and the Rewards for Justice program, is actively seeking information on his whereabouts and offering substantial rewards.