Abu Mohammed al-Jolani leads offensive against Assad as HTS claims control of Damascus

Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, leader of the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has led a successful offensive against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who has reportedly fled Damascus. This marks a significant shift in the Syrian conflict, with HTS declaring the capital free from Assad's rule. Al-Jolani, once a radical jihadist, has moderated his image and rhetoric over the years. He has moved away from his extremist past, adopting a more pragmatic approach to gain support and establish control in areas previously held by Assad. Since merging HTS with other groups in 2017, al-Jolani has focused on governance and stability in regions under his control. He has assured local communities, including minorities, of their safety, aiming to present himself as a responsible leader amid the ongoing conflict.