The situation in Syria remains complex and fluid, yet the path forward from Bashar al-Assad's oppressive regime is becoming clearer. The opposition forces that liberated Syria from the dictator who built brutal prisons have emerged from radical Islamic movements, including former ISIS affiliates from Iraq.
Nevertheless, their leader, Ahmed al-Shara, previously known as Abu Muhammad al-Julani, strikes a different tone. His statements have resonated positively across Syria's diverse spectrum of ethnic groups, religious denominations, and communities.
Al-Shara, a devout Muslim and former ISIS member who founded Jabhat al-Nusra (now Hayat Tahrir al-Sham), appears to have evolved. Those who have met with him recently describe a pragmatic leader working to adapt to the new reality he helped create in Syria.
Regarding Israel, al-Shara sees no conflict and has declared he will not allow attacks against Israel from Syrian territory. He emphasized that he and the new leadership are committed to the 1974 Disengagement Agreement on the Golan Heights. His government has even requested the UN to extend UNDOF's mandate in Golan.
Sources close to al-Shara say regional states should support the Syrian people and make clear to the new leader that without including all segments of society in building the new Syria, he cannot be a regional partner. These sources explain that while he seeks rapprochement with the West and Israel, he lacks experience in regional politics and power struggles. He has an understanding with Turkey, but serious disagreements remain over issues like northeastern Syria's integrity.
Those familiar with Syria understand that Assad's fall surprised not only Israel, Turkey, and the entire Iranian axis, but also the opposition forces involved and their leader himself.
Given the opposition leadership's inexperience, regional and Western pressure is needed to prevent the Islamization of Syria simply because of its diverse religious groups and denominations. This requires establishing leadership representing various factions and streams, while maintaining Sunni predominance across both religious and secular groups.
Al-Shara looks to Israel first before making decisions regarding the Golan. He does not condemn or complain about Israeli strikes on former regime bases; rather, this helps him build a new army with Western weapons and end Russian dependence following Iran's complete withdrawal from Syria.
Conversely, he hopes Israel will evaluate him and his actions. His circle says the groundwork exists for good, productive neighborly relations. They emphasize that al-Shara could potentially sign a peace agreement with Israel and resolve the Golan issue with all its implications.
A close associate stresses that Israel is not an enemy and its actions will determine future relations. The new Damascus anticipates and desires an end to hostility, building new relationships benefiting both peoples and the entire region.
