As the situation in Syria continues to evolve, the recent advancements of Islamist rebels in Aleppo mark a significant turning point in the nearly 14-year conflict. The city, once a stronghold of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, is now under the control of Hayat al-Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)—a group formerly associated with Al-Qaeda.
Life Returns to Aleppo
Residents are starting to see signs of normalcy as a night-time curfew has been lifted and essential services are being restored. Reports indicate that:
- Bread is once again available in bakeries.
- Traffic is resuming with police managing intersections.
- Improvements in internet access are noted, thanks to a rebel-linked telecoms network.
Despite these developments, challenges persist. Many locals express concerns regarding water supply and the rising cost of living, with the Syrian pound experiencing significant devaluation, which has surged from 15,000 to about 22,000 to the U.S. dollar recently.
HTS’s New Approach
HTS, under the leadership of Abu Mohammed al-Golani, is attempting to reshape its public image. Analysts believe the group is keen to position itself as a legitimate alternative to Assad’s regime. For instance, they have established a civil administration in Idlib that governs around three million people, showcasing experiences relevant to civilian governance.
Reassuring the Population
To allay fears, especially among minority communities, HTS has been proactive in communicating its intentions. The group has made statements to reassure residents that their rights and basic public services will be preserved:
- HTS promises continued operation of essential services.
- Communications have been sent encouraging government fighters to defect under protective terms.
However, scepticism remains among residents regarding HTS’s governance capabilities, especially concerning personal and religious freedoms. Dareen Khalifa, an expert on the region, emphasised that many Syrians are wary of potential implications of HTS’s rule.
International Concerns
The West has reacted cautiously as well. The U.S. State Department reiterated its designation of HTS as a terrorist organisation and continues to call for a political process to help establish governance in Syria. The transitional plans proposed by HTS indicate a departure from their previous administrative model, aiming to avoid international aid hindrances.
The dynamics in Syria continue to shift rapidly, with HTS moving beyond Aleppo and into similarly contested areas such as Hama, highlighting the ongoing complexity of the situation.