The newly emerged leader of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has dismissed concerns that the war-torn country poses any threat to its neighbors or the West. Speaking exclusively to the *Observer Diplomat* in Damascus, Sharaa emphasized Syria’s exhaustion from years of conflict and urged the international community to reconsider sanctions on the nation.
Call to Lift Sanctions
Sharaa, who led the swift offensive that dismantled Bashar al-Assad’s regime earlier this month, argued that sanctions were initially designed to target the previous government. “Sanctions must be lifted because they were targeted at the old regime,” Sharaa said. “The victim and the oppressor should not be treated in the same way.”
Sanctions have crippled Syria’s economy for years, and the new leadership sees their removal as critical for rebuilding the country.
From Rebel to Leader
Previously known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, Sharaa heads Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the dominant faction in Syria’s rebel coalition. HTS, initially an offshoot of al-Qaeda, formally broke ties with the terrorist organization in 2016. Despite this, the group remains listed as a terrorist organization by the United Nations, the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom.
Sharaa dismissed this label, asserting that HTS has evolved and no longer operates as a terrorist group. “We have never targeted civilians or civilian areas,” he claimed. “We see ourselves as victims of the Assad regime’s crimes.”
Commitment to Change
Critics have drawn parallels between HTS’s rise in Syria and the Taliban’s governance in Afghanistan, but Sharaa rejected such comparisons. “Syria and Afghanistan are very different countries with different traditions and mindsets,” he explained.
He also highlighted HTS’s efforts in promoting education, especially for women. “In Idlib, we have had universities for more than eight years,” Sharaa said. “The percentage of women in these universities is more than 60%.”
On broader cultural issues, such as the consumption of alcohol, Sharaa remained cautious. “These are legal matters that I cannot decide unilaterally. A Syrian committee of legal experts will draft the constitution, and all leaders will follow the law.”
Skepticism Among Syrians
Despite his relaxed demeanor and civilian attire during the interview, many Syrians remain skeptical about Sharaa’s promises. His assurances that HTS has left its extremist roots behind have yet to convince the populace.
As Syria’s de facto ruler, Sharaa now faces the monumental task of proving his claims through action. Observers believe the next few months will be pivotal in determining the nature of Syria’s governance and its place on the global stage.
The Road Ahead
For Sharaa and his administration, international recognition, the removal of sanctions, and rebuilding Syria are top priorities. Whether the world—and Syria’s own citizens—will accept the new leadership remains uncertain.
The actions of Sharaa and HTS in the coming months will be closely watched, shaping not only Syria’s future but also its relationship with the global community.
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