The leader of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Abu Mohammed al-Golani, declared on December 16, 2023, intentions to disband various rebel factions previously at the forefront of the conflict against the regime of Bashar al-Assad. This momentous decision follows the capture of the Syrian capital, Damascus, by rebel forces just days earlier, marking the end of Assad's decades-long brutal rule.
During recent meetings with members of the Druze community and foreign diplomats, al-Golani, whose real name is Ahmed al-Sharaa, stressed the urgency of integrating rebel fighters under the newly formed Syrian defense ministry. “All will be subject to the law,” he affirmed, signaling his commitment to establishing order and governance across the country.
Al-Golani emphasized the necessity for Syria to remain united, stating, “There must be a social contract between the state and all religions to guarantee social justice.” This assertion reflects his intent to reach out to the diverse religious and ethnic groups within Syria, particularly the Druze, who make up approximately three percent of the pre-war population.
His Pledge of disbandment is also seen as a move to appease international stakeholders and minority communities within Syria, illustrating HTS's self-representation as responsible state actors after having played significant roles in ousting Assad.
This announcement takes place amid tensions involving Kurdish forces and Turkey. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which have engaged with the U.S. against ISIS, reported failed truce negotiations with Turkey. They blamed Turkey's refusal to acquiesce to important negotiation points for the standoffs continuing between regional powers, showcasing the complex geopolitical terrain HTS must navigate post-Assad.
Adding to the nuance of the situation, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the Syrian caretaker government’s commitment to humanitarian support, noting, “I also welcome their agreement to grant full humanitarian access through all border crossings.” Guterres called for the international community to rally behind the Syrian people as they endeavor to build a more hopeful future.
Discussion remains about HTS’s modern-day intentions and how the West will respond. While al-Golani's organization has its roots steeped in al-Qaeda, the Islamist entity has made efforts to portray itself as moderates willing to protect the rights of all Syrians. Their call for the lifting of Western sanctions is particularly integral for enabling refugees to return, many of whom fled persistent violence and instability.
“Syria must remain united,” al-Golani reiterated as he called for unity, emphasizing the consequences of continued sanctions not just on the Syrian economy but also on the humanitarian aspects affecting displaced populations. The lifting of these sanctions is pressing to allow refugees displaced by the Syrian civil war to return to their homes.
This plea resonates loudly, especially as various European governments have suspended processing asylum applications for Syrian refugees. Nations such as the UK, Germany, France, and Italy have halted applications due to uncertainties concerning HTS's governance and treatment of minorities. Yet the HTS leader, through his recent outreach including meetings with UK diplomats, expressed the urgency to restore relations.
He described the need for rebuilding trust with international partners, focusing on cooperation as HTS embarks on its new role as interim leaders. The pressing need to establish legitimate governance mechanisms and assure both domestic and international audiences about the safety of minority groups and the restoration of civil society cannot be overstated.
The transition of power post-Assad has stirred various responses from the international community, with both caution and optimism prevailing. Guterres’ call for humanitarian access resonates with the many Syrians struggling amid dire circumstances within the war-torn country, as over 70% of the population remains impoverished.
The international community is carefully weighing how to approach HTS, particularly concerning its status as a designated terrorist organization. The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, laid out the expectation for HTS to demonstrate definitive actions aligning with claims of renouncing extremism and adhering to principles of inclusive governance.
While nations are considering the pragmatic direction forward, the plight of ordinary Syrians remains fraught with challenges. Many are seeking information about lost loved ones, enduring memories of grievous atrocities committed under Assad's regime. Al-Golani’s leadership emerges as pivotal for reshaping Syria’s narrative, but his recent declarations on compliance with law and governance stand under scrutiny.
Given this uncertainty, it will be pivotal to see whether the road laid out by HTS allows for genuine peace-building efforts or if past conflicts resurface, contributing to prolonged strife within the region.
Only time can tell how effective these proclamations will be and whether they will translate to stabilizing the fractured nation. Meanwhile, the need for humanitarian interventions and support remains at the forefront as millions look to rebuild their lives.
