In the power vacuum left by the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s Iranian-backed dictatorship, a new force has risen to lead Syria: Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), under the leadership of Ahmed al-Sharaa, more widely known as Abu Mohammed al-Julani. Once the head of the al-Qaeda-linked Nusra Front, Julani now claims to represent a new chapter in Syria’s political future. His newly formed cabinet is being hailed by some as inclusive, but beneath the surface, concerns remain about the true nature of this regime.
Old Faces, New Titles: The Nusra Core Endures
Despite efforts to project an image of reform, the critical ministries—Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Interior—remain firmly in the hands of former Nusra Front loyalists. These appointments raise serious questions about whether this new government truly represents a break from jihadist ideology or merely a rebranding effort to gain legitimacy on the world stage.
These ministries hold immense power over Syria’s military policy, intelligence services, and international diplomacy. By keeping these key positions in the hands of former extremist operatives, the Julani government signals that its commitment to “moderation” may be more tactical than sincere.
Diversity as a Shield?
The new government features a diverse array of ministers in an apparent attempt to showcase inclusivity:
- A Christian woman has been appointed to oversee Social Affairs.
- A Druze holds the Agriculture portfolio.
- An Alawi—a member of Assad’s once-dominant sect—is now Minister of Transportation.
- A Kurd has been given the Education Ministry.
- A Turkmen-Arab leads the Information Ministry.
While this composition might appear progressive, critics argue that it is largely symbolic. Real power lies not with these minority ministers, but with the entrenched inner circle of HTS loyalists who still shape national security and foreign policy.
Strategic Messaging or Tactical Camouflage?
Julani’s attempt to craft a technocratic, multi-ethnic image is likely designed to court international recognition and deflect attention from HTS’s jihadist roots. But the world must not be fooled. While appearances may have changed, the structure of power remains deeply tied to Syria’s former jihadist insurgency.
The international community must proceed with caution. Any engagement with Julani’s government must be predicated on full transparency, verifiable commitments to disarmament, and an unequivocal break from terrorism.
A Cautionary Tale for Post-Conflict Governance
Syria today is a nation in transition, but whether it is headed toward stability or further fragmentation depends on the true intentions of its new rulers. The people of Syria deserve freedom, security, and justice—not another generation of leaders who hide extremism behind a mask of reform.
Israel and the free world must remain vigilant. With Iran’s influence crippled and the Assad regime toppled, the last thing the region needs is a “moderate jihadist” government quietly reassembling the infrastructure of terror under the guise of governance.
