The Syrian rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the Syrian National Army, launched a significant offensive on November 27, capturing key cities such as Aleppo and Hama. HTS, initially connected to al-Qaida, has transformed into the dominant rebel faction, facing accusations of human rights violations. The rebel dynamics involve complex relationships and diverging interests, particularly influenced by Turkey’s role in the conflict.
The Syrian rebel forces that have recently garnered attention due to their advances are led primarily by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), alongside the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army. HTS has a significant foothold in northwestern Syria and has been pivotal in the recent offensive initiated on November 27, resulting in the capture of major cities, including Aleppo and Hama.
Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, the founder of HTS, has a tumultuous history, participating in the Iraqi insurgency and previously evolving from an ally of al-Qaida to forming his own powerful rebel faction. Currently, HTS has been designated a terrorist organization by the United States, facing scrutiny for alleged human rights abuses in territories under its control.
Although HTS and the Syrian National Army have collaborated at various times, their interests diverge significantly, especially as the Syrian National Army seeks a buffer zone along the Turkish border to counter Kurdish militancy, while Turkey has shifted its strategy towards promoting reconciliation in the ongoing conflict.
The context surrounding the Syrian conflict involves a complex landscape of rebel factions, international interests, and historical grievances. The emergence of HTS stems from its roots in earlier groups like Jabhat al-Nusra, initially tied to al-Qaida. With the Syrian civil war drawing in various external actors, including Turkey, the dynamics among these groups have continuously evolved, underscoring the challenges in achieving stability amidst ongoing violence and power struggles in the region.
In summary, the recent activities of the Syrian rebels, particularly under the leadership of HTS, signify a critical juncture in the protracted Syrian civil conflict. The complexities of these factions, their historical ties, and external influences, particularly from Turkey, highlight the ongoing challenges faced in achieving a peaceful resolution. The situation remains fluid and requires close monitoring as new alliances and rivalries continue to shape the future of Syria.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
