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The Global Story
The rebel commander running Syria
Dec 20, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Jeremy Bowen, BBC's international editor, interviews Ahmed al-Sharaa, the newly emerged leader of HTS and the de facto ruler of Syria. They explore al-Sharaa's rapid rise from local rebel to influential leader in the wake of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The conversation delves into critical issues like governance reforms in Idlib, the respect for women's rights in Syria, and the challenges of uniting diverse factions. Al-Sharaa reveals his vision for a transformed Syria and the ethical foundations necessary for lasting change.
28:15
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Quick takeaways
- Ahmad al-Shara's rapid rise from rebel leader to de facto ruler reflects both his leadership potential and the skepticism surrounding his past affiliations with extremist groups.
- His call for a democratic process and inclusivity in governance emphasizes the need for representation among diverse Syrian sects amid a complex socio-political landscape.
Deep dives
Rise to Power
Ahmad al-Shara has rapidly transitioned from leading a rebel faction in Syria's Idlib province to becoming the country's de facto leader following the fall of the Assad regime. His ascent has raised questions among the international community and local citizens, especially given his past association with jihadist groups like Al-Qaeda. al-Shara's background includes fighting against American forces in Iraq and receiving instructions from notorious figures linked to Islamic State, yet he claims to have severed ties with these factions since 2016. Despite his controversial history, many view his impressive leadership skills, intelligence, and ability to run an organized administration in Idlib as signs of his potential to lead Syria into a new era.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode