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How Julani Is Reshaping Syria’s Political Landscape

Syria's New Rebel Leader: Al-Julani Declares Himself President and Dissolves Assad’s Regime

In a significant shift in Syria's political landscape, Abu Mohammed al-Julani, the leader of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, has officially been named the interim president of Syria.

Eliana Fleming
Eliana Fleming
3 min read
Ahmed al-Sharaa (Al-Julani)
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

This announcement was made on Wednesday following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad from power last month, marking the end of the Assad regime's decades-long rule over the country.

Julani, who now leads the country following a successful rebel offensive that ousted Assad on December 8, 2024, outlined a vision for a transitional phase aimed at rebuilding Syria’s institutions. As part of his new role, Julani is tasked with forming a temporary legislative council, according to Syrian state media.

The appointment of Julani comes amid a dramatic restructuring of Syria’s governance. In addition to his presidential role, Julani has moved swiftly to dissolve Assad-era institutions. The Baath Party, which ruled Syria for over five decades, has been officially disbanded, and the existing parliament has been dissolved. Furthermore, Syria’s 2012 constitution has been suspended as the country enters a new phase of political transition.

This new leadership structure was unveiled during a conference called "The Victory of the Syrian Revolution," attended by Julani, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Sheibani, and commanders of armed factions that had fought to depose Assad. The event marked a defining moment in Syria's journey post-Assad, as Julani and his allies solidified their control over the country.

In his speech, Julani outlined key priorities for Syria’s future, including the restoration of civil peace, the rebuilding of state institutions, and the creation of a development-oriented economy. “The mission of the victorious is heavy, and their responsibility is immense,” Julani remarked, signaling the weight of his new role.

Despite the optimism expressed by Syria's new leadership, there remain significant challenges ahead. Julani’s HTS group, once linked to Al-Qaeda, continues to be regarded as a terrorist organization by several Western nations. However, in recent statements, Julani has distanced himself from the extremist ideology of groups like ISIS, emphasizing his commitment to a peaceful, stable Syria that integrates into the broader Arab world. He has also expressed a desire to build better relationships with neighboring countries, such as Saudi Arabia, in an effort to redefine Syria’s role in the region.

The United States, which had previously placed a $10 million bounty on Julani’s head, has since removed the reward but maintained sanctions on Syria. As the new transitional government moves forward, Julani's administration is focused on rebuilding Syria's infrastructure, filling the power vacuum left by the fall of Assad, and addressing the country’s longstanding issues of war and instability.

Julani’s rise to power represents a new chapter for Syria, but questions remain about the long-term stability of his administration and its ability to gain widespread recognition and legitimacy both at home and abroad.


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