US mission in Damascus cancels press conference over security concerns

AFP, citing an official from the American embassy in Damascus, reported that the US diplomatic mission in Damascus canceled a press conference scheduled for today due to security concerns.

Instead, the mission plans to hold an online press conference to address questions from journalists.

The US State Department announced that three senior American diplomats arrived in Damascus on Friday to meet with Ahmed Al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammad Al-Jolani, Syria's de facto leader.

Meanwhile, the European Union (EU) stipulated that the new administration must take "appropriate steps" to improve relations.

A statement from the State Department confirmed that the American delegation aims to gather information about missing Americans, including Austin Tice and Majd Kamalmaz. They will also engage with representatives of Syrian civil society, activists, and community members to discuss their vision for the future of Syria and explore how the US can support them.