Syria Will Not Be a Threat to Israel, Ties with al-Qaeda Are the Past: Ahmad al-Sharaa Jolani

“From Jihadist to Leader: Ahmad al-Sharaa’s Evolving Vision for Syria”

Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known by his jihadi alias Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, has emerged as a central figure in post-Assad Syria. Once a commander of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) with strong links to al-Qaeda, Al-Sharaa now presents himself as a pragmatic leader steering Syria through its fractured transition.

A Shift in Ideology

Gone is the militant leader who once embraced extremism. Today, Al-Sharaa speaks of “Syrian religious nationalism” and emphasizes unity over ideology. During a recent meeting at the presidential palace in Damascus, he appeared reserved and thoughtful, cautiously outlining his vision for Syria.

“We do not want Syria to become the Middle East’s Afghanistan,” he stated, referencing the pitfalls of governance based solely on tribal or extremist doctrines. Instead, Al-Sharaa promised to respect Syria’s culture, history, and diversity.

Women’s Rights Under the Spotlight

Al-Sharaa pointed to progress under HTS-controlled territories, claiming that 60% of university students in Idlib are women. However, he avoided directly addressing contentious topics such as the hijab, amid reports of enforced head coverings and conservative backlash. A viral video of Al-Sharaa posing with a veiled woman sparked debate, with critics accusing him of compromising his beliefs to appease secular factions.

“It’s my freedom to choose how to take pictures,” Al-Sharaa explained, dismissing allegations of coercion.

Promises of a New Syria

Al-Sharaa has repeatedly distanced himself from his extremist past, insisting that HTS is no longer a terrorist group but a legitimate political entity. He has pledged to uphold minority rights and facilitate a new constitutional process. However, critics argue that the constitutional committee remains under his tight control, raising doubts about his commitment to genuine reform.

A Pragmatic Diplomat

In discussions about Syria’s future, Al-Sharaa prioritizes the lifting of international sanctions, which he claims are now punishing the victims of Assad’s regime. He has also called for global support to rebuild Syria, stressing the need for reconciliation and stability.

While some remain skeptical of his transformation, others see a leader adapting to the complex realities of a war-torn nation. “What matters most to me is the trust of the Syrian people,” Al-Sharaa declared.

A Balancing Act

Despite his efforts to project a moderate image, Al-Sharaa faces significant challenges. Many Syrians demand justice for Assad’s atrocities, and his ability to unite the nation depends on delivering tangible results. At the same time, he must navigate the intricate web of foreign interests, armed factions, and lingering threats from groups like ISIS.

For Al-Sharaa, the stakes are clear: “Syria is tired of wars. It needs to be rebuilt, not torn apart again. Our survival depends on unity and the trust of the people.”

Whether Al-Sharaa can truly transform from a polarizing figure to a unifying leader remains to be seen, but his changing rhetoric signals a potential turning point for Syria’s future.

“Ahmad al-Sharaa’s New Stance: Bridging Syria’s Future with Regional Diplomacy”

Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, is navigating a delicate path as the new face of leadership in Syria. Once a hardened jihadist with ties to al-Qaeda, his evolving mindset reflects a pragmatic approach, not only towards domestic governance but also regional relations—most notably with Israel.

A Break from the Past

In stark contrast to his militant past, Al-Sharaa now speaks the language of reconciliation and pragmatism. When discussing Israel, a longstanding adversary of Syria, his tone is markedly different from the fiery rhetoric of previous leaders.

“Syria is tired of wars,” he stated. “It needs to be rebuilt and will pose no threat to anyone, including Israel.” This shift signals a departure from the aggressive stances of the Assad regime and extremist factions, focusing instead on stabilizing Syria as a fractured yet sovereign state.

Pragmatism Over Confrontation

Al-Sharaa acknowledges Syria’s limitations in challenging regional powers, especially in its war-weary state. “Whether Israel is strong or weak, it does not matter now. Our priority is rebuilding Syria, not escalating conflicts,” he said during a meeting in Damascus.

This pragmatism reflects an understanding of Syria’s geopolitical reality. The country’s prolonged war has left it vulnerable, with foreign powers like Russia, the U.S., and Iran entangled in its affairs. Confronting Israel—a military powerhouse supported by the U.S.—is not on Al-Sharaa’s agenda.

Balancing Public Sentiment

Despite his tempered approach, Al-Sharaa faces challenges in balancing public opinion. Many Syrians view Israel as an occupying force, particularly given its strikes on Syrian territory and its stance on the Golan Heights. Al-Sharaa has avoided outright confrontation, instead focusing on Syria’s recovery.

He framed Syria’s sovereignty as essential, not for the sake of confrontation but for regaining dignity. “We are not here to serve anyone’s agenda. Syria’s rebirth is for its people,” he asserted, urging for regional stability through dialogue and reconstruction.

Calls for International Engagement

Al-Sharaa has urged the international community to lift sanctions and assist in rebuilding Syria. He emphasized that Syria’s stability is critical for the entire Middle East, hinting at the potential for improved relations with all regional players, including Israel, under the right circumstances.

However, he was careful not to alienate Syrians who expect justice for past conflicts. His position on Israel reflects a nuanced approach: avoiding direct confrontation while fostering conditions for long-term stability.

A New Chapter in Regional Relations?

While Al-Sharaa’s rhetoric signals a softer approach, critics question whether this shift is genuine or a strategic maneuver. For now, his focus remains on rebuilding Syria and establishing his leadership as a unifying force.

“Syria’s geography places it at the heart of the Middle East,” Al-Sharaa remarked. “Our recovery is not just about us; it’s about ensuring peace for the region.”

Only time will tell if this pragmatic stance will lead to a lasting transformation in Syria’s domestic and foreign policy, but Ahmad al-Sharaa’s evolving views offer a glimmer of hope for a country seeking peace after years of devastation.