U.S. Intel Officials Met With Syrian President Assad's Closest Advisor In Damascus

Ali Mamlouk (right) is considered Assad's closest and most trusted advisor. He met with US intelligence officials in June, according to Reuters.

Reuters: U.S., Syrian security officials met in Damascus: official, report

Beirut (Reuters) - A U.S. delegation including security and intelligence officials visited Damascus in June and met Syria’s security chief, an official in the regional alliance backing President Bashar al-Assad said on Tuesday.

Earlier on Tuesday the pro-Hezbollah Lebanese newspaper al-Akhbar reported that the U.S. delegation had held a four-hour meeting with security chief Ali Mamlouk near Damascus international airport.

Asked about the reports, two senior U.S. intelligence officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said there was an “ongoing dialogue with members of the Assad regime” about driving Islamic State from Syria, Damascus’ stockpile and use of chemical weapons, including chlorine, and the fate of journalist Austin Tice, who officials believe Damascus or its allies are holding.

The Syrian government could not be reached for comment.

Read more ....

Update: US Intel Officials Made Secret Trip To Damascus For Talks With Assad Advisor (Zero Hedge)

WNU Editor: This was a four hour meeting. As to what was discussed .... I can only guess.