Post-Assad Syria: Can HTS Deliver Stability and Progress?
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RDA Gulf Correspondent - . December 27, 2024
- . Update: December 27, 2024 7:46 pm
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) led by Ahmed al-Sharaa (also known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani took control over Syria after the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. HTS initially linked to al-Qaeda but it has sought to distance itself from the extremist origins. This is to present a clear and clean image on the global stage.
But there are many news emerging as a sensation in front of the globe. According to the reports Al-Qaeda has congratulated Ahmed al-Jolani leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) on his recent successes in Syria. This congratulatory message and support are raising questions about the intentions of the group.
The rise of HTS has faced many problems. Reports are indicating and shedding light on violence in different parts of Syria, like field executions, sexual violence, stealing, and destroying public buildings. These actions make people doubt if the group respects human rights or can keep things peaceful. US State Dept Reports are also indicating the bad situation in Syria.
Rise of HTS in the Levant: A New Power in Syria
The international community is watching HTS closely and observing how it governs. There are many ongoing concerns about its past links to al-Qaeda and its governance in the Levant. HTS has been a dominant force in the Levant, particularly in Syria since 2017. After some time it took control of Idlib province. Abu Mohammed al-Jolani is the leader who worked to set a good picture of HTS to get local support for this they started promoting “we are at a distance from al-Qaeda”. In 2024 HTS is a big power in the region. But the ability of HTS to lead the nation is also being questioned, especially since they faced similar problems in Idlib back in 2017.
These are adding new complexity when some of the terrorist groups have reportedly shown support for the recent achievements of al-Jolani. Because of a longer term of conflicts and instability in the region now Syria is lagging. There is a big gap in quality education and proper healthcare for Syrians in Syria. Years of conflict and instability led the lives of Syrians to such a worse situation. People are facing problems in getting basic services.
HTS announced a general amnesty for people convicted or accused of various crimes, including terrorist activities. HTS is saying it is an effort to bring peace and stability to the country. But after this announcement, critics are worried that this move by HTS might let serious criminals escape punishment.
Syria is going through a challenging time, and the future is unclear. The stability and progress of the nation will depend on how well HTS governs, respects human rights, and brings together its diverse people.
