Abu Mohammed al-Golani rebrands as leader of Syrian insurgency promoting pluralism

Abu Mohammed al-Golani, leader of the Syrian insurgency, has shifted his image from a jihadi extremist to a proponent of pluralism. Recently, his group began using his real name, Ahmad al-Sharaa, signaling a significant transformation. With the fall of President Bashar Assad and the capture of Damascus, al-Golani's influence is growing. His group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, is now a key player in Syria's fragmented landscape, which includes various ethnic and religious communities. Al-Golani has worked to consolidate power in Idlib, distancing himself from al-Qaida and promoting a vision of governance that reflects Syria's diversity. He has sought to reassure minorities and build ties with local tribes, presenting a more moderate public persona.