Cairo: Hani Kamal El-Din
Abu Muhammad al-Julani, also known as Ahmad al-Sharaa, has emerged as one of the most prominent figures in the intricate landscape of the Syrian conflict. As the leader of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), al-Julani has not only solidified his authority in Idlib but also presented what some describe as the “New Syria” that the opposition has long promised. His transformation and growing media presence have captured the attention of Western outlets and international observers.
Who is Abu Muhammad al-Julani?
Born into an educated Syrian family, al-Julani’s father was an engineer in the oil industry and an author of various academic works. Al-Julani initially studied public relations but left his studies in the wake of the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. He joined one of al-Qaeda’s affiliates and fought against American forces, which eventually led to his imprisonment in a notorious detention facility. It was during his time in captivity that he established connections with future leaders of the Islamic State (ISIS).
Upon his release, al-Julani was tasked by ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi to establish a Syrian branch of the caliphate. Although he succeeded in his mission, ideological differences later caused a split, leading al-Julani to form Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, which now dominates Idlib.
A Shift in Strategy: Localized Goals
One of al-Julani’s most significant shifts was moving away from the global jihadist agenda pursued by groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS. Instead, HTS has focused exclusively on Syria. By identifying Bashar al-Assad’s regime as the primary adversary rather than targeting international systems, HTS has opened doors to strategic alliances with regional powers such as Turkey. Some reports even suggest indirect cooperation with actors traditionally opposed to jihadist factions.
In Idlib, al-Julani has worked to create a semblance of governance that surpasses even the regime-held territories in some respects. Institutions providing healthcare, education, and public services have flourished, offering a stark contrast to the chaos typically associated with opposition-controlled areas.
Al-Julani’s Media Engagement
In a notable interview with CNN, al-Julani emphasized the importance of adaptability and pragmatism in leadership. He described accusations of terrorism against him as politically motivated and reflective of a past era. “People change,” he stated, underscoring his focus on current achievements rather than his earlier years of militant activity.
By framing his leadership as progressive and institution-focused, al-Julani has garnered a degree of credibility in Western media. Despite being on the U.S. most-wanted list with a $10 million bounty on his head, he has been described as a “progressive jihadist” by some commentators.
Governance and Institutions
Al-Julani’s approach in Idlib prioritizes building institutions over ideological rigidity. HTS has invested heavily in creating a stable environment with functioning healthcare, education, and infrastructure systems. Al-Julani claims this emphasis on discipline and order has allowed his movement to transition from chaos to structured governance.
However, HTS has faced allegations of suppressing dissent and committing human rights violations. Al-Julani has responded to such claims by emphasizing accountability and promising justice for any wrongdoing. Critics argue that his declarations often serve to appease Western audiences.
Navigating Religious and Ethnic Diversity
Acknowledging the fears surrounding Islamic governance, al-Julani insists that his leadership seeks to address these concerns by creating inclusive institutions. He envisions equal rights and protection for all religious and ethnic groups, aligning governance with the traditions and spirit of the region rather than relying solely on strict interpretations of Islamic law.
This rhetoric, coupled with his focus on pragmatic governance, has increased his appeal in Western narratives. Al-Julani’s name is now frequently mentioned in discussions about Syria’s future, positioning him as a key player on the international stage.
Challenges and Criticism
Despite the successes claimed by al-Julani, his leadership faces significant challenges. The complex dynamics of Idlib, ongoing tensions with remnants of al-Qaeda and ISIS, and the broader geopolitical struggles in Syria present formidable obstacles. While he portrays himself as a reformist leader, his past affiliations and controversial tactics remain a focal point for critics.
The Future of al-Julani’s Role
Al-Julani’s prominence reflects a strategic shift in the Syrian opposition. By emphasizing local governance, pragmatic alliances, and adaptability, he has carved out a unique role in the conflict. As his influence grows, so too does the international interest in his leadership and the model he represents for opposition-held territories.
