Abu Mohammed al-Golani leads insurgency that takes control of Damascus

Abu Mohammed al-Golani, now known as Ahmad al-Sharaa, leads the insurgency that has taken control of Damascus, marking a significant shift in Syria's power dynamics. He has distanced himself from al-Qaida, presenting himself as a proponent of pluralism. Al-Sharaa's group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has consolidated power in northwest Syria. He has worked to reshape his image, advocating for a governing system that reflects Syria's diverse communities, contrasting with his previous hardline Islamist stance. His rise follows years of conflict, beginning with his involvement in Iraq in 2003. Al-Golani's transformation from a jihadi leader to a potential state builder is now being tested as Syria faces an uncertain future after Assad's regime.