In his first major TV interview, Syrian rebel leader Ahmad al-Julani stated that Israel has no justification to intervene in Syria’s affairs following the departure of Iranian forces. He emphasized the need for reconstruction, stability, and respect for Syrian sovereignty. Julani criticized the Assad regime for bringing poverty upon the nation and pledged to eliminate captagon production, highlighting a shift towards state governance and diplomatic relations.
In a significant interview with Syria.tv, Ahmad “Abu Mohammad al-Julani” al-Sharaa, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), articulated his vision for Syria’s future, emphasizing the need for stability and reconstruction following years of conflict. He posited that Israel lacks credible reasons to intervene in Syria, stating that after the withdrawal of Iranian forces, any foreign military presence should be reconsidered. Julani expressed a desire for diplomatic solutions over military options, urging the international community to respect Syrian sovereignty and prevent escalation.
Julani also highlighted the immense challenges posed by the Assad regime, which he accused of draining Syria’s resources and leading the country to poverty. He asserted a commitment to addressing these issues and proposed a focus on building legitimate state institutions rather than continuing revolutionary tactics. He intends to eradicate the captagon drug production that thrived under Assad, which has contributed to allegations of Syria becoming a narco-state.
Furthermore, Julani reaffirmed his dedication to safeguarding the rights of minority communities in Syria, particularly Christians and Druze, who opposed the regime. In addressing the Kurdish groups, he distinguished between the Kurdish populace and the PKK, indicating a potential shift in alliances among Syrian opposition factions. To conclude, Julani reiterated the necessity for the Syrian Defense Ministry to centralize authority by disbanding armed factions and consolidating weaponry under state control.
The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011, has seen various factions vying for power in the country amidst a complex backdrop of international interference, particularly from Israel and Iran. Ahmad “Abu Mohammad al-Julani” al-Sharaa leads Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an influential group that has positioned itself as a key player in the rebel landscape. His recent interview marks a pivotal moment in which Julani seeks to transition from military leadership to a more statesmanlike role, focusing on Syria’s future stability and reconstruction efforts.
Ahmad al-Julani’s remarks signify a promising shift towards a more diplomatic and constructive approach to Syria’s tumultuous situation. By advocating for the end of foreign military interventions and prioritizing the country’s reconstruction and stability, he emphasizes a significant evolution in leadership style. His commitment to protecting minority rights and dismantling drug trafficking operations offers a renewed vision for governance in post-conflict Syria, reflecting a critical need for unity and recovery as the nation grapples with its path forward.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
