Kurds and HTS: Tensions rise in Syria’s fragile new government

Less than two weeks after the Syrian National Army (SNA) began its latest offensive against then-President Bashar al-Assad, the rebel forces now find themselves as Syria’s new leaders. Led by the former Harakat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) member Abu Mohammad al-Julani, the rebels’ efforts are currently focused on transitioning into the provisional Syrian Salvation Government (SSG). Following the collapse of Assad's regime, Syria has embarked on a political transformation, signaling an opportunity to rebuild the nation after over a decade of civil war. 

As the fighting forces transition to establish a new government for Syria, global leaders have expressed measured optimism while underscoring the challenges ahead. Echoing similar sentiments, governments from the US, France, the UK, Germany, and even Saudi Arabia welcomed the fall of Assad’s regime as a pivotal moment for Syria but also warned of the risks of such a transition, especially since Julani’s HTS is an offshoot of al-Qaeda. Even Turkey has stayed away from normalizing relationships with the SSG, even if, behind the scenes, the NATO member has helped the SNA in multiple ways.   (Read More)