Abu Mohammed al-Golani reshapes image as leader of Syria's insurgency against Assad

Abu Mohammed al-Golani, leader of the insurgency that recently toppled Syrian President Bashar Assad, is shifting his public image. He has distanced himself from al-Qaida and is now known by his real name, Ahmad al-Sharaa. With Assad in hiding, al-Golani's group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is positioned to play a significant role in Syria's future governance. Al-Golani has promoted a vision of pluralism and tolerance, aiming to reassure various ethnic and religious communities. Previously a hardline Islamist, al-Golani has adopted a more moderate appearance, advocating for state institutions and decentralization. His transformation raises questions about the future political landscape in Syria, which remains fragmented among various factions and foreign interests.