Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTŞ), under Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, has emerged as a significant force in Syria, marking a transformative shift in its leadership and diplomatic strategies. Esaad Hasan Şeybani, a doctoral student at Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University, has been appointed as Syria's new Foreign Minister. This appointment reflects HTŞ's intent to establish a more internationally palatable image, focusing on reconstruction and economic development.
The group, which split from al-Qaeda in 2016, has made notable strides in reshaping Syria's political landscape. HTŞ's recent military success led to the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, with Damascus now under the group's control. Azzam Garib has been named Governor of Aleppo, further solidifying HTŞ's administrative influence.
The new administration is keen on avoiding further conflicts, emphasizing a diplomatic approach. Al-Jolani has engaged in dialogue with the UN and US diplomats, signaling a potential shift in international relations. This diplomatic engagement has already seen some results, with Washington retracting a $10 million bounty on Ahmed Hussein al-Sha'ar.
Internationally, the recognition of HTŞ's governance is gradually unfolding. Qatar has reopened its embassy, and Turkey has been the first to establish diplomatic ties, with the European Union expressing readiness to follow suit. However, France remains cautious, symbolically raising its flag over its embassy while keeping it closed.
HTŞ's strategic appointments and diplomatic overtures suggest a calculated move towards stability and regional peace. As Syria navigates this transitional phase, the world watches closely, gauging the implications of HTŞ's leadership on regional and global dynamics.
