The Taliban’s fellow Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has welcomed congratulations from its Afghan counterparts following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad in Syria. However, HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa appears to be distinguishing itself from the Taliban’s extremist approach to governance.
While acknowledging “differences” between Syria and Afghanistan, Sharaa has publicly pledged to adopt moderate policies on women’s rights, national reconciliation, and relations with the international community. He has stated that his government will allow women to access education and that Christian women will not be forced to observe the veil.
This is in contrast to the Taliban’s strict adherence to Islamic law, which has been opposed internationally and by many Afghans. The HTS is considering various restrictions and limitations for women, but its stance remains unclear.
Sharaa’s vision for unity and reconciliation among Syria’s diverse groups appears more inclusive than the Taliban’s approach. He has invited senior former Ba’athist leaders to participate in national dialogue conferences, aiming to create a constitution acceptable to all.
The international community is closely watching Syria’s transition and how the HTS responds to fellow Syrians’ aspirations. Diplomats have reported impressing with Sharaa, who is pushing for a quick end to international sanctions on his country.
However, caution remains among Western officials due to the Taliban’s history of projecting a moderate face before revealing its true extremist nature. Blinken advises the emerging group in Syria to focus on “moving the country forward” to avoid international isolation, suggesting that time will tell whether HTS can truly deliver on its promises.
Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/syrian-islamist-government-women-taliban-sharaa-hts/33250490.html