What it is about

Following the historic fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Abu Muhammad al-Julani, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), announced on Monday that all rebel factions in Syria would be disbanded, placing their fighters under the defense ministry to ensure legal compliance and readiness for a peaceful transition in Syria.

Why it matters

The rapid fall of Assad’s regime has opened new prospects for peace in a region long plagued by conflict, particularly with Israel’s security in focus. The strategic dismantling of opposition groups exemplifies Julani’s dedication to restoring order, protecting minority rights, and encouraging the return of refugees, aligning many principles with Israel’s security concerns for stability.

Israel’s Role and Concerns

Julani acknowledged Israel’s right to defensive measures while Iran-backed threats existed actively within Syria. With Assad and his regime, which was aligned with Iran, no longer a dominating force, Julani urged for a new phase in Syria-Israel relations, strengthening regional security and focusing on internal Syrian harmony.

The Push for Lifting Sanctions

Addressing foreign journalists and international diplomats, Julani emphasized the importance of restoring normalcy by advocating for the lifting of economic sanctions against Syria, another move benefiting Israeli interests by stabilizing a neighboring region burdened with displacement.

Momentum for a United Syria

Julani is leading an initiative emphasizing unity across Syria’s diverse religious and ethnic landscape. His proactive approach to governance seeks social justice, promising future cooperation with neighboring countries, including Israel, while maintaining a stance against terrorism, ensuring protection for Syrians, Israelis, and associated populations from extremist threats.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.