The new leadership in Syria presents a paradoxical image to the world — a blend of calculated pragmatism and deeply entrenched extremist roots. These leaders are far from ordinary figures. Among them is Ahmed al-Sharaa, (also known as al-Julani), the de facto ruler of Syria and a figure with an extensive history in al-Qaeda’s inner circles. His past collaborations with Abu Musab al-Zarqawi in the early 2000s, during the height of the Iraq War, are well-documented. They fought US forces in battles that were among the most brutal of modern warfare, including the infamous sieges of Fallujah. During these years, al-Qaeda attracted a legion of international fighters determined to establish a caliphate in Mesopotamia.
These historical ties are essential for understanding the complexities of Syria today. al-Sharaa and his comrades now lead Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group that claims to have severed its ties with al-Qaeda but has yet to convincingly demonstrate a break from the ideology that once defined it. In recent years, al-Sharaa has been making statements aimed at Western media and policymakers, attempting to reframe HTS as a moderate entity capable of governing Syria responsibly. These attempts, however, raise an important question: Are these statements genuine, or are they part of a strategic bluff designed to gain international recognition and legitimacy?
There is no doubt that individuals and movements can change. History offers examples of former extremists who have renounced their ideologies, embraced reform and become advocates for peace. But such transformation requires more than superficial gestures; it demands a profound confrontation with the beliefs and practices that once defined them. This is where the scepticism arises with al-Sharaa and HTS.
To date, HTS leaders have avoided making public declarations that unequivocally denounce the core tenets of their extremist past. Instead, their rhetoric appears calibrated to appease specific audiences without alienating their base. Some officials within HTS continue to disseminate online content that targets the rulers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the UAE, branding them as “tyrants” or “Taghut” (a derogatory term used by extremists to denote infidels). This ongoing hostility raises doubts about the sincerity of HTS’s supposed evolution.
What complicates the situation further is the group’s apparent rebranding efforts. Trading turbans for tuxedos and engaging in polished media campaigns are not new tactics for Islamist organisations seeking to navigate the Western political landscape. Groups in Europe and North America have employed similar strategies to gain legitimacy and access to political systems. However, in Syria, the stakes are far higher. The prospect of a nation’s future being shaped by such a calculated façade is deeply troubling.
The importance of genuine reform in Syria cannot be overstated. The country has been ravaged by more than a decade of war, leaving it fragmented and vulnerable to external influence. The Assad regime, with its brutal governance and alliance with Iran and Hezbollah, has left a legacy of destruction and repression. For Syria to truly move forward, it must break free from this stranglehold.
However, replacing one form of extremism with another is not a solution. A rebranded HTS that continues to harbour extremist ideologies could pose an even greater challenge, as its leadership would have the veneer of legitimacy while remaining unyielding in its core beliefs. Without meaningful change, Syria risks becoming a failed state under the guise of a reformed one, perpetuating cycles of violence and instability.
The potential for a brighter future exists but it requires more than empty promises. Imagine a Syria that is free from Assad’s tyranny, devoid of Iranian influence, and unburdened by Hezbollah’s reach. Such a Syria could emerge as a regional partner for peace, even joining the Abraham Accords and establishing diplomatic relations with Israel. This vision, though ambitious, is not unattainable. Yet it hinges on one critical factor: the willingness of Syria’s leadership to embrace genuine ideological reform.
For Syria’s new leadership to prove its sincerity, actions must speak louder than words. Superficial gestures will not suffice in convincing the world of their transformation. HTS leaders must take bold, visible steps to confront and reject extremist ideologies. This means issuing unequivocal public declarations denouncing their past and making systemic changes that reflect a commitment to inclusivity and peace.
Moreover, these efforts must be backed by tangible actions on the ground. This could include fostering pluralism within Syrian society, protecting minority rights and establishing governance structures that prioritise the well-being of all citizens. International observers and potential allies will be watching closely for signs of genuine reform, and symbolic gestures alone will not earn their trust.
Despite the challenges, there are grounds for cautious optimism. The notion of a better Syria is not merely a dream; it is a possibility that can be realised through concerted effort and genuine reform. If the new leadership is serious about building a brighter future, they must rise to the occasion and prove their sincerity through deeds, not just rhetoric.
Syria’s future hangs in the balance. The choices made by its leaders in the coming years will determine whether the country emerges as a beacon of hope or remains mired in the shadows of its past. For al-Sharaa, the time has come to choose: Will they embrace the courage needed to change, or will they remain trapped in a cycle of superficial transformation?
