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Global News Podcast

Syria's de facto leader says the country is not a threat to its neighbours or the west

Dec 19, 2024
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new de facto leader of Syria and head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, shares his insights on the country's current state, claiming Syria is exhausted from war and poses no threat to its neighbors or the West. He discusses the aftermath of the Assad regime, emphasizing advancements in healthcare and education in Idlib while addressing concerns about his group's authoritarian practices. Jeremy Bowen, BBC's international editor, intricately navigates this complex landscape, exploring the need for dialogue with global powers amid evolving political dynamics.
31:13

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Quick takeaways

  • Ahmed al-Sharaa emphasizes Syria's exhaustion from war and its non-threatening stance towards neighbors and the West, advocating for lifted sanctions.
  • Under HTS control, Idlib has experienced significant governance improvements, notably in education and women's rights, despite some community dissent.

Deep dives

Syria's Political Landscape

Syria's new de facto leader, Ahmed al-Shara, communicates that the country is weary from prolonged conflict and does not pose a threat to its neighbors or the West. He has urged for international sanctions against Syria to be lifted, highlighting the suffering caused to the Syrian people. Al-Shara, who leads the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), contends that his group, once branded a terrorist organization, should be delisted due to its role in attempting to stabilize the country. He emphasizes the need for dialogue among Syria's diverse sectarian groups, stressing that governance will respect the country's historical and cultural contexts.

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