WASHINGTON, Dec 7, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday called for the protection of civilians and minorities in Syria, as rebel groups continued to seize swathes of territory from the control of President Bashar al-Assad's forces.

During a phone conversation with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, "Secretary Blinken emphasized the importance of protecting civilians, including members of minority groups, across Syria. The Secretary discussed the need for a political solution to the conflict," said US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.