Syrian rebel leader Abu Mohammad al-Julani has been quietly rebranding himself as a force for peace and unity in the region. After a decade-long civil war, al-Julani’s former militant group has shed its jihadist label, embracing promises of reconciliation and unity instead. The international community is taking notice, with major powers and diplomatic delegations flocking to Damascus to engage with him.
The US has lifted sanctions on al-Julani, while European leaders have warmly welcomed his metamorphosis. However, moderate Arab leaders remain wary, fearing they could be his next targets. Israel is also weighing its options, considering a dialogue with al-Julani as a means of reducing threats along its northeastern border and countering Turkey’s influence in Syria.
Three possible scenarios emerge: outright refusal, acceptance, or partial engagement. Al-Julani might secretly flirt with the idea of securing support from Israel against his enemies, including Iran and ISIS. If successful, both sides could secure significant benefits – al-Julani stabilizing his regime, while Israel mitigates threats along its border.
Despite initial optimism, Syria’s Golan residents have begun expressing discontent with the IDF’s presence, which is expected to be temporary once a fortified barrier is completed. Israel is working to establish relationships with local populations and assess al-Julani and his entourage, but decades of intelligence on Syria are now obsolete due to the regime change in Damascus.
The coming months will determine whether al-Julani remains a terrorist in disguise or has truly transformed into a figure akin to Anwar Sadat.
Source: https://www.israelhayom.com/2024/12/26/when-the-new-leader-of-syria-planned-an-attack-on-israel