Once one of the most numerous rebel factions within Syria, the Ahrar al-Sham, or what’s left of it, is facing a new crisis, with infighting threatening to pull the group apart, centering on the political wing and the military forces.
Ahrar al-Sham was a major rebel group, heavily Islamist, but also presented by the West as a “moderate” group, despite the leadership speaking favorably of al-Qaeda. As with most rebels, they’ve been confined to northern Idlib Province. As a foreign-backed group they’ve ended up in the good graces of Turkey.
Political leaders seem to be trying to keep themselves separated from the fighters in the group, with one of their commanders recently relieved of political office. The commander has rejected, and threatened defiance, over the decision.
Making things even more complicated, the commander has been endorsed in this resistance by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which is the local al-Qaeda affiliate. HTS is the biggest rebel force left in Idlib, and controls the most territory. They’ve tried to unite the rebels under their control, and Ahrar al-Sham would be a big acquisition in their effort to make themselves the last rebel faction
Thanks. Interesting how the Syrian “rebels” have largely disappeared from US news media. Turkey and the Saudis, UAE etc. seem to be bogged down in Yemen and also dealing with financial problems.
These “rebel” groups are bought and paid for by outsiders. You have to wonder if the Israelis have also been financing them, in a roundabout way. Of course they would pay to stir up trouble but may also not have the funds.
Infighting will chip away at these groups, especially as finances dwindle. Let’s hope so.
It is simpler then meets the eye. Turkey has Idlib blocked, no more threats of refugee avalanche.
Groups that seek Turkey’s protection must make commitment— give up group objective, disburse inside Turkish military and get new command. Good for soldiers — they get pay, opportunity to advance, even get citizenship. Bad for commanders — especially those used to booty. Like distribution of humanitarian aid, foreign help, profits from smuggling or even taxes.
HTS is fully US/UK funded outfit, legally funded through White Helmets. At present — they are boxed in. May be the largest, but in shrunk territory.
Si, in the last few weeks — they have been trying on new tricks — attacked groups, kidnapped leaders. Calling them “ISIS” — to sound legit. But really — HTS just desperately need SOMEBODY LOCAL — as the core is of dubious provenance.