By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a dramatic shift of power, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime has crumbled, with rebel forces capturing Damascus and forcing Assad to flee. The offensive was led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group formerly affiliated with al-Qaeda and now under the leadership of Abu Mohammed al-Jolani. This development raises critical questions about the roles of the United States and Israel in the Syrian conflict.
The Rise of HTS and Abu Mohammed al-Jolani
Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, whose real name is Ahmad al-Sharaa, has undergone a significant transformation from his early days as a radical jihadist. Initially associated with al-Qaeda, he later distanced himself from the group, rebranding HTS as a more moderate entity. Despite these efforts, al-Jolani remains a controversial figure, with a substantial bounty on his head due to his past affiliations.
U.S. and Israeli Involvement in Syria
The United States and Israel have been actively involved in the Syrian conflict, each pursuing their strategic interests. The U.S. has supported various opposition groups, including Kurdish forces, aiming to counter both the Assad regime and the Islamic State. Israel has conducted operations targeting Iranian assets in Syria, seeking to curb Iranian influence near its borders. However, these interventions have inadvertently created a power vacuum, allowing groups like HTS to gain strength.
Allegations of Support to Extremist Groups
Reports have surfaced suggesting that both the U.S. and Israel have provided support to groups with extremist ties. The U.S. has been accused of arming and training militants in Syria, some of whom are linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS. Similarly, Israel has been reported to have provided medical aid and, in some instances, weapons to Syrian rebels, including those with extremist affiliations.
The Collapse of Assad's Regime
The rapid advance of rebel forces, culminating in the capture of Damascus, has exposed the fragility of Assad's regime. Despite support from Russia and Iran, Assad's forces were unable to withstand the coordinated offensive. The fall of Aleppo and Homs to rebel control further weakened the regime's position.
Implications for Syria's Future
With Assad's departure, Syria faces an uncertain future. HTS has expressed intentions to establish a free, democratic, and pluralistic society, but its past associations and the presence of other militant groups complicate this vision. The international community must now navigate the complexities of post-Assad Syria, balancing the need for stability with the promotion of democratic governance.
In conclusion, the involvement of the United States and Israel in Syria has had unintended consequences, contributing to the rise of groups like HTS. As the region enters a new phase, it is imperative to reassess foreign policies to prevent the empowerment of extremist factions and to support the establishment of a stable and inclusive Syrian state.
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