HTS Leader Ahmed al-Sharaa Declares Syria Is Not a Global Threat

Ahmed al-Sharaa, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, claimed that Syria is no longer a threat to neighboring countries or the West. He urged for sanctions on Syria to be lifted, called for HTS to be removed from terrorist designations, and emphasized that HTS does not target civilians. Sharaa also rejected comparisons with Afghanistan, advocating for education and reforms.

In a recent interview with the BBC, Ahmed al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of Syria and head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), asserted that Syria is not a threat to its neighbors or Western nations. He described the country as exhausted from the prolonged conflict and called for the international community to lift sanctions imposed on Syria. Sharaa emphasized that HTS should be removed from the terrorist organizations list and denied that his group had targeted civilians. He insisted that HTS members viewed themselves as victims of the Bashar al-Assad regime, stating that victims should not be equated with their oppressors. Additionally, he refuted claims of intending to transform Syria into a situation akin to Afghanistan, highlighting the differing societal structures and his commitment to women’s education. Despite his assurances, skepticism remains among the Syrian populace regarding HTS’s intentions and its departure from extremism.

The ongoing conflict in Syria has seen various factions vying for power, with HTS emerging as a significant player. Ahmed al-Sharaa, previously known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, has recently gained prominence following a successful offensive against the Assad regime. HTS, which evolved from a splinter of al-Qaeda, faces designation as a terrorist organization by numerous international bodies. Sharaa’s assertions reflect an attempt to reshape HTS’s image amidst scrutiny while advocating for a new direction for Syria following years of devastation.

In summary, Ahmed al-Sharaa positions himself as a leader advocating for peace and reformation in post-war Syria, distancing HTS from its extremist associations. His calls for the lifting of sanctions and reclassification of HTS come amid a complex backdrop of skepticism and a desire for stability. The true direction of Syria’s future leadership will become evident over the coming months as the group navigates its role in the country’s rebuilding process.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk