Promises to the West, Neglect for Syrians

Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the new de facto leader of Syria, called for lifting sanctions, arguing they target the old Assad regime. He denied that HTS remains a terrorist group, claiming it does not target civilians and has broken from its extremist roots. Sharaa emphasized differences between Syria and Afghanistan, expressing support for women’s education and a legal committee to draft a new constitution. He avoided addressing certain social issues, leaving them to future legal decisions. Many Syrians remain skeptical about his reassurances and the intentions of Syria’s new rulers.

Editor’s Note: Ahmed al-Sharaa’s statements as the new de facto leader of Syria seem calculated to address Western concerns rather than providing meaningful reassurances to Syrians. His emphasis on distancing HTS from its extremist background and advocating for women’s education and constitutional reform falls short of making substantive commitments to improve the lives of ordinary Syrians. There is also no mention of democratic elections or concrete plans for rebuilding the war-torn country. By avoiding promises of actual improvement, Sharaa appears to be more concerned with appeasing international forces in order to gain legitimacy and reduce sanctions than with meeting his people’s immediate needs. The lack of a clear vision for Syria’s future puts the country’s vulnerable population in a perilous situation, with little prospect for justice or prosperity. [See also: Syrians Ask for Peace as Israel Incursion Spreads to Hadar, Syria Rebel Leader Meets With UK Diplomats, Asks Lifting of Sanctions, Removal of Terrorist Designation, Why is Israel Bombing Syria?]

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