Islamist group running Syria has mixed record over governance in province, ruled with ‘iron fist’

A new government is emerging in Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, sparking speculation about whether it will move towards moderation or adopt a Taliban-like regime. The U.S.-designated terrorist group, Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), previously ruled the Idlib Governate in northwest Syria under the Syrian Salvation Government. HTS aimed to shift its focus from global Jihadist goals to local governance.

Natasha Hall, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, highlighted HTS’s iron-fisted rule in Idlib, which included the expulsion of Christians and suppression of dissent. Despite attempts to distance itself from radical Islamism, HTS faced criticism for human rights abuses and harsh Sharia law enforcement.

As power dynamics shift in post-Assad Syria, concerns arise about potential power struggles among various factions. Tammy Palacios, a program manager at the New Lines Institute, pointed out that while HTS leader Mohammed al-Golani sought to moderate the group’s image, hardline elements within HTS remained active.

Al-Golani’s efforts to rebrand HTS and establish a transitional government raised questions about the group’s true intentions. Despite HTS’s promises to protect religious minorities and Shia sites, its past ties to al Qaeda and ISIS raised doubts about its commitment to a democratic transition.

The U.S. has engaged in direct talks with HTS, signaling a willingness to cooperate on issues like locating missing journalist Austin Tice. However, the decision to remove HTS from the foreign terrorist list remains a contentious issue, with experts emphasizing the need for clear criteria and accountability measures.

In navigating the complex political landscape of post-Assad Syria, the international community faces challenges in promoting stability and preventing terrorist groups from gaining a foothold. As Syria grapples with a power vacuum, the future trajectory of HTS and other factions will shape the country’s path towards peace and security.

With ongoing developments in Syria, the need for strategic engagement and diplomatic efforts to address governance challenges and security threats remains paramount. As the world watches the unfolding dynamics in Syria, the implications of HTS’s role in shaping the country’s future will be closely monitored by policymakers and analysts alike.