Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, 42, is the leader of Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS), a powerful Syrian faction that has become the dominant force in the country’s northwest. Once an Islamist militant, Jolani has reinvented himself as a moderate leader, seeking to present his group as a viable partner in regional efforts to curb Iran’s influence.
Born in Riyadh to Syrian parents, Jolani was radicalized during the Second Palestinian Intifada and later became a jihadist in Iraq after the 2003 US invasion. However, he has since distanced himself from extremist organizations and promoted a more palatable revolutionary agenda.
Jolani’s group has made significant gains in Idlib province, where it has established a semi-technocratic government and promoted itself as a viable partner in regional efforts to curb Iran’s influence. Despite being designated a terror organization by the US, Jolani seeks to present his group as a force for stability and moderation.
In recent interviews, Jolani has sought to project confidence and leadership qualities, while avoiding references to jihad. However, human rights groups have raised alarm about HTS’ treatment of dissidents in Idlib, alleging harsh crackdowns on protests and torture.
As the Syrian regime teeters on collapse, Jolani may be positioning himself to play a key role in shaping the region’s future. His rebranding efforts have been met with skepticism, but his group remains a powerful force in Syria, with thousands of men under its command.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/06/middleeast/syria-hts-al-jolani-profile-intl/index.html