The Syrian conflict has seen HTS and the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army capture significant cities like Aleppo and Hama. HTS, a rebranded faction previously linked to al-Qaida, is marked as a terrorist group amid human rights concerns. Both groups have complex relationships, sometimes collaborating but also competing over goals, particularly regarding the control of territory and opposition to the Assad regime.
The conflict in Syria has intensified as the rebels, primarily led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) alongside the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army, have made significant territorial gains. This coalition initiated a startling offensive on November 27, managing to seize vital urban centers including Aleppo and Hama. HTS, originally founded by Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, has evolved from its past ties with al-Qaida and now stands as the preeminent rebel faction, yet it faces international condemnation for its terrorist designations and reported human rights violations in the regions under its control. Both HTS and the Syrian National Army have at times collaborated and clashed over differing objectives, particularly concerning their strategies against the Assad regime and the Kurdish factions supported by Turkey.
In the ongoing Syrian civil conflict, various factions have emerged, with HTS playing a pivotal role since its formation. Originally part of the broader jihadist movement in Syria, HTS has established itself as the most formidable rebel group operating from northwest territories. Despite its previous affiliation with al-Qaida and subsequent disavowal, HTS’s actions continue to attract scrutiny from international observers, particularly regarding its treatment of dissenters and alleged human rights abuses. Concurrently, the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army aims to secure zones along the Turkish border, targeting Kurdish groups perceived as threats to Ankara’s interests. This complex dynamic illustrates the multifaceted nature of the Syrian conflict and the varying motivations of its participants.
The developments surrounding the Syrian rebels, particularly HTS and the Syrian National Army, underscore the increasingly fragmented landscape of the Syrian civil war. While HTS has solidified its position as a leading faction, its controversial practices and international backlash raise questions about its future. The tenuous alliance with the Syrian National Army further complicates the conflict, as differing priorities may lead to further instability. The regional and geopolitical implications remain profound as these groups navigate their interests amid ongoing warfare.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
