Last week in Damascus, Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa (formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani) was approached by a young woman while on tour. She asked for a photo with him, but he gently requested that she cover her hair before taking the picture. This incident sparked a heated debate across Arabic social and mainstream media.
The incident highlighted the delicate position that Syria’s new rulers, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) – designated as a terrorist organization by the UN, US, EU, and UK – find themselves in. On one side, there is the diverse and, in some cases more liberal, Syrian population, as well as the international community, whose acceptance is crucial for HTS’s survival and legitimacy. They feared that conservative policies could lead to mandating the veil for all women.
On the other side, Islamist hardliners criticized al-Sharaa for even taking the photo, calling the woman a “mutabarijah” and accusing him of violating religious rules. These hardliners hold significant influence over militant factions and could potentially rally opposition within al-Sharaa’s own Islamist base.
HTS faces the challenge of balancing the expectations of the international community and more liberal parts of the Syrian population with the demands of their hardline base. The group’s ability to navigate these tensions will be crucial for maintaining control and pursuing their political ambitions.
Ahmed al-Sharaa has focused on coexistence within Syria’s diverse society, granted amnesty to former military conscripts, and adopted a conciliatory tone towards traditional adversaries. However, his more progressive moves have sparked unease among hardliners in Syria, who insist on a strict Islamist government rooted in a distinctive Sunni identity.
HTS’s evolution from al-Nusra Front to an independent faction reflects al-Sharaa’s strategic vision, aimed at ensuring the group’s acceptance and long-term survival. The group’s dual strategy of winning hearts and minds while using force to stamp out rivals has solidified their authority in Idlib province.
Despite facing challenges and criticism, including protests against HTS’s leadership and accusations of colluding with foreign powers, HTS has attempted to balance religious restrictions in Idlib. Al-Sharaa has argued against strict rules imposed through force, but the group has sometimes employed strict measures to appease hardliners.
This ongoing balancing act between the demands of different factions within Syria will be crucial for HTS’s future and their ability to maintain control and pursue their political goals.