Reuters reported that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham brought stability to Idlib in 2017 after years of civil war. The road to Idlib still shows signs of old front lines, with trenches, abandoned military positions, rocket shells, and ammunition. Until recently, Idlib was the only area controlled by the opposition. Rebels led by HTS launched an offensive that led to the downfall of Bashar al-Assad and his family’s dictatorship in Syria. The group has become the de facto authorities in the country, attempting to extend their way of governance to other parts of Syria.
In the city center of Idlib, opposition flags were seen flying high, celebrating the resistance against the regime. While reminders of the war like destroyed buildings and rubble still exist, there have been improvements, such as renovated houses, new shops, and well-maintained roads. However, there have been complaints about what is perceived as heavy-handed rule by the authorities.
HTS, originally linked to al-Qaeda, has rebranded itself in recent years as a nationalist force focused on removing Assad. Despite attempts to moderate its tone and gain international recognition, it is still considered a terrorist organization by several countries and organizations. The group took control of Idlib in 2017, establishing the Salvation Government, which provides public services funded by taxes collected from businesses, farmers, and crossings with Turkey.
Residents have noted improvements in Idlib since HTS took control, with some praising the development in the region. While some social rules imposed by HTS have been relaxed, there have been protests against authoritarian rule and concerns about the group’s consolidation of power. The fall of Assad has allowed some Syrians to return to their hometowns, experiencing changes and uncertainties in the new governance.
In a Christian village near Idlib, the removal of Assad was celebrated, with the community experiencing more freedom under the Islamist group in charge. However, concerns about the treatment of minorities and the sincerity of the group’s changes remain. Despite uncertainties, some residents express trust in the group, acknowledging the lack of alternative options.
Opponents have been reluctant to criticize the group, raising questions about the level of freedom and trust in the current administration in Idlib. Reuters
“Ahora son los héroes… [Pero] tenemos líneas rojas. No permitiremos dictadores de nuevo, Jolani o cualquier otro”, dijo, refiriéndose a Ahmed al-Shara, el líder de HTS que dejó su seudónimo Abu Mohammad al-Jolani después de llegar al poder.
“Si actúan como dictadores, la gente está lista para decir no, porque ahora tienen su libertad.”
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