Hayat Tahrir Al Sham has taken military control over key Jordanian and Lebanese border crossings, positioning itself as a major power in Syria following the removal of Bashar Al Assad. This control aims to restore normal trade operations and address smuggling issues. Jordanian authorities are responding with increased surveillance due to security concerns, as HTS seeks to stabilize border procedures to facilitate trade.
Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS), an extremist faction that emerged from the Syrian civil conflict, has now assumed military control over the primary border crossings linking Syria with Jordan and Lebanon. This strategic maneuver comes as HTS seeks to fortify its dominance within Syria following the ousting of Bashar Al Assad on December 8. According to reports from local witnesses and commanders, HTS has deployed both personnel and armored vehicles to the Nasib crossing into Jordan and has begun to facilitate existing border traffic procedures.
The reestablishment of normal traffic through these critical crossings could significantly aid the distressed Syrian economy, offering a flow of hard currency to potential future governance structures. Prior to the civil war, Syria acted as an essential trade conduit between the Arabian Peninsula and Europe, in addition to being a primary export route for Lebanon to the Gulf states. HTS is prioritizing the resumption of commerce with Jordan by requesting smaller factions to yield control of the crossing and reinstating pre-war protocols, as stated by a rebel commander named Abu Omeir.
“We have managed to bring back some old staff and will adopt the old border procedures for now,” remarked Abu Omeir. In response to HTS’s increased military presence, Jordan’s air force has escalated reconnaissance operations, ensuring the maintenance of security in the region. Jordan, along with other Arab nations, has articulated that its support for the new Syrian governance depends on the prevention of the country becoming a base for terrorism.
HTS’s efforts also extend to countering the smuggling of illegal drugs, specifically amplifying control over the trafficking of Captagon. This trade was historically overseen by the Syrian military and Iranian-aligned militias under previous governance. Aside from the Nasib crossing, HTS has also positioned itself at the Jdeideh crossing into Lebanon and has initiated operations on the Anti-Lebanon mountain range, enhancing their territorial grip.
Lastly, HTS’s military actions have recently pressured the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to yield significant territory in Eastern Syria. Currently, areas predominantly controlled by the Kurdish forces and remnants of the Islamic State remain the only territories outside HTS or allied Syrian National Army influence, supported by Turkish backing.
The rise of Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS) as a prominent power in Syria occurs in the context of the ongoing civil war, which began in 2011 after protests against Bashar Al Assad’s regime. HTS emerged as a key player in efforts to oppose Assad, having previous ties to Al Qaeda. Historically, Syria has held significant importance as a trade corridor, facilitating the flow of goods between Europe and the Arabian Peninsula, as well as serving as a export platform for Lebanese goods to Gulf states. The recent takeover of key border crossings indicates a shift in control following the Assad regime’s weakening.
HTS’s takeover of the primary border crossings with Jordan and Lebanon marks a significant shift in the power dynamics within Syria. The group’s focus on restoring traffic through these crossings could revitalize the faltering economy and establish a semblance of normalcy for trade. However, the international community remains cautious, particularly concerning security threats posed by extreme groups. The situation continues to evolve, with HTS gaining territory while navigating complex political landscapes amidst competing factions.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
