The Global Story The rebel commander running Syria
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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.
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Al-Sharaa's Jihadist Past
- Ahmed al-Sharaa, HTS leader, has a history of jihadist involvement, fighting in Iraq with al-Qaeda.
- He later broke ties with al-Qaeda and other extremist groups, governing Idlib since 2016.
Al-Sharaa's Rule in Idlib
- Despite al-Sharaa's past, his governance of Idlib is described as efficient and increasingly professional by NGO workers.
- His rule involved development, Turkish currency use, and investments, but also a firm hand against dissent.
Transformation of Al-Sharaa
- Al-Sharaa, formerly known as Jolani, transitioned from military fatigues to a suit, signaling a shift in his role.
- He shed his nom de guerre, Jolani, derived from the Golan Heights, his family's place of origin.