Syria’s New Dawn: rebel Group HTS Takes Control Amid Inclusivity Concerns
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In a dramatic turn of events, Ahmad al-Sharaa, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has swiftly consolidated power in Syria following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad on December 8. The rebel group, which spearheaded the alliance that toppled Assad, is now establishing its authority in Damascus, raising questions about the inclusivity of the new government.
HTS, formerly affiliated with al Qaeda before breaking ties in 2016, has moved quickly to install an interim government and deploy police forces. mohammed al-Bashir, the head of the regional government in Idlib, has been appointed as Syria’s interim prime minister, underscoring HTS’s dominant role in the post-Assad era.
During its advance into Damascus, HTS reassured Syrians, especially minority groups, that it would protect their rights and faiths. This message, delivered by Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, has been repeated since Assad’s fall, aiming to garner broad support.
“There is no such thing as Islamic governance. After all, we are Muslims and it’s civil institutions or ministries,” said Mohammed Ghazal, a civil engineer brought from Idlib to run Damascus affairs. “We don’t have any problem with any ethnicity and religion. The one who made the problem was the (Assad) regime.”
However, the rapid transition and the appointment of senior administrators from Idlib have sparked concerns among opposition sources and diplomats about the inclusiveness of the new government. Four opposition sources and three diplomats interviewed by Reuters expressed worries over the lack of broader participation in the process.
Prime Minister Bashir has stated that he will remain in power only until March. Yet, HTS, classified as a terrorist group by the united States, Turkey, and other nations, has yet to clarify key details of the transition, including plans for a new constitution. In a statement to Reuters, Sharaa pledged to dissolve the former regime’s security forces, close its prisons, and pursue those responsible for torture and detainee killings.
While many Syrians celebrate the end of Assad’s oppressive rule, others are apprehensive about the future. Wissam Bashir,a 28-year-old Damascus resident,voiced his concerns at a local cafe,noting the spread of Islamic flags and the composition of the new government.
At his inauguration, Prime Minister Bashir was flanked by two flags: the green, black, and white flag of the anti-Assad opposition and a white flag bearing the Islamic oath of faith, commonly used by sunni Islamist fighters. However, in an interview with Al Jazeera, only the Syrian national flag was displayed behind him.
“You are bringing (ministers) from one color, there should be participation of others,” said Zakaria Malahifji, secretary general of the Syrian National Movement. “Syrian society is diverse in terms of cultures, ethnicities, so frankly this is concerning.”
For now, the focus in Damascus is on rebuilding the shattered state. Mohammed Ghazal, who has taken charge of the Damascus governor’s office, described the situation as “a collapsed state.It’s ruins, ruins, ruins.” His immediate priorities include restoring basic services and streamlining the bureaucracy. Salaries,currently averaging around $25 a month,are set to increase to match the Salvation Government’s minimum wage of $100 a month.
“Syria is a very rich country,” Ghazal said, emphasizing the potential for economic recovery under the new administration.
As HTS continues to shape the new Syria,the world watches with cautious optimism,hoping for a more inclusive and stable future for the war-torn nation.
Syria’s Fragile Stability: Policing Efforts and Post-War Challenges
As Syria navigates the complexities of post-war reconstruction, the restoration of normalcy in its cities remains a daunting task. In damascus, the presence of policemen brought from Idlib underscores the ongoing struggle to maintain order amid a fractured security landscape.
The financing of these efforts, however, remains a contentious issue. One source revealed,”The regime used to steal the money,” shedding light on the financial challenges that continue to plague the country’s recovery.
In Damascus, traffic officers from Idlib are now tasked with directing vehicles, a stark contrast to their previous duties in the war-torn city. One officer, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed the strain they are under, stating, “We were previously just patrolling Idlib, but now we are stretched thin trying to manage the chaos here.”
The dominance of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) among the rebel factions that once fought against Assad’s regime is evident. Though, other armed groups persist, particularly in border regions near Jordan and Turkey.These areas remain volatile, with lingering rivalries and enmities from the war posing meaningful risks to long-term stability.
The legacy of inter-factional clashes during the conflict has left a deep-seated animosity among various groups. This, coupled with the ongoing financial struggles and security challenges, paints a challenging picture for Syria’s future.
As the country moves forward, the integration of former combatants into a unified security force and the resolution of financial disputes will be crucial steps in rebuilding a stable and functional society.
Key Challenges in Post-War Syria
- Restoring normalcy in cities like Damascus
- Integrating former combatants into a unified security force
- Addressing financial challenges and corruption
- Managing lingering rivalries and enmities among rebel factions
The road to stability in Syria is fraught with obstacles, but the efforts of individuals like the Idlib policemen offer a glimmer of hope. As the nation continues to rebuild, addressing these challenges will be essential for a enduring future.
Syria’s New Dawn: HTS Consolidates Power Amid Concerns Over Inclusivity and Stability
In the wake of Bashar al-Assad’s ousting, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has swiftly taken control of Damascus, raising questions about the inclusivity and long-term stability of the new government. as HTS establishes its authority, experts are examining the challenges of integrating former combatants, addressing financial struggles, and managing lingering rivalries among rebel factions. We sat down with Dr.Omar Al-Sharaa, a renowned Middle East expert and professor at the University of Damascus, to discuss the implications of HTS’s rise and the future of Syria.
The role of HTS in Post-Assad Syria
Senior Editor: Dr. Al-Sharaa, thank you for joining us. The recent events in Syria have been nothing short of dramatic. Can you explain the significance of HTS’s role in the post-Assad era?
Dr. Omar Al-Sharaa: Certainly. HTS’s dominance is a direct result of its military prowess and organizational structure. They were instrumental in toppling Assad’s regime, and now they are consolidating power in Damascus. However, this raises concerns about the inclusivity of the new government.while HTS has promised to protect minority rights, the rapid transition and the appointment of senior administrators from Idlib have sparked fears of a lack of broader participation.
Challenges of Integrating Former Combatants
Senior Editor: You mentioned the issue of inclusivity. Another major challenge seems to be integrating former combatants into a unified security force. How do you see this playing out?
Dr. Omar Al-Sharaa: This is a critical issue. The legacy of inter-factional clashes during the conflict has left deep-seated animosities among various groups. Integrating former combatants into a unified security force will require careful planning and a focus on reconciliation. Without addressing these lingering rivalries, the risk of renewed violence remains high. It’s essential to create a framework that ensures all factions feel represented and valued.
Economic Recovery and Financial Challenges
Senior Editor: economic recovery is another pressing concern. What steps should the new government take to address financial challenges and corruption?
Dr. Omar Al-Sharaa: Syria is a resource-rich country, but years of conflict have devastated its economy. the immediate focus should be on restoring basic services,increasing salaries,and streamlining the bureaucracy. Long-term solutions will require international support and investment. Though, rebuilding trust in the government is crucial. Addressing corruption and ensuring transparency will be key to attracting foreign aid and fostering economic growth.
The Road to Stability
Senior editor: what does the future hold for Syria? How can the country move forward toward stability?
Dr. Omar Al-Sharaa: The road to stability is fraught with obstacles. However, the efforts of individuals like the Idlib policemen, who are now tasked with restoring order in Damascus, offer a glimmer of hope. The integration of former combatants, resolution of financial disputes, and addressing lingering rivalries will be crucial steps in rebuilding a stable and functional society. It will take time, but with the right approach, syria can emerge from the ashes of war and chart a new course for its future.
Senior Editor: Dr. Al-Sharaa, thank you for your insights. Your expertise provides a valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing post-Assad Syria.
Dr. omar Al-Sharaa: Thank you for having me. It’s essential to continue the conversation and support Syria’s journey toward a peaceful and prosperous future.
