Syria's New Leadership and the Path to State Control

In the wake of Bashar al-Assad's ousting, Syria's new rulers aim to integrate all militias into the national army. This move is led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist militia previously labeled as a terrorist group by many Western nations. HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa announced plans for armed groups to disband and join the Syrian military, striving for centralized state control over all weapons.

Amidst these changes, Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan advocates for the rapid lifting of international sanctions on Syria, imposed since the 2011 uprising. The Turkish government continues its military operations against the Kurdish YPG militia in northern Syria, which it views as an extension of the PKK, a group considered terrorist by Turkey, the EU, and the US. Meanwhile, the HTS seeks to protect diverse ethnic and religious communities, including Kurds and Christians, from potential aggression.

The diplomatic landscape is shifting as HTS embarks on a series of engagements with international figures. Al-Sharaa's recent meeting with Lebanese Druze leader Walid Jumblatt underscores an effort to reassure minority groups. Additionally, HTS has appointed Assaad Hassan al-Shibani as Syria's new foreign minister, signaling a bid for broader diplomatic recognition and regional stability.

Amid these developments, Syria has pledged to reduce its involvement in Lebanon, respecting its sovereignty and independence. This pledge comes as part of broader efforts to stabilize the region and reduce decades-old tensions. As Syria navigates its post-Assad future, the international community's response remains critical, particularly concerning support for Kurdish forces and the potential easing of sanctions.