Syrian rebel leader rebrands as moderate while facing scrutiny over human rights abuses

Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, once the leader of al-Qaeda's Syrian branch, is rebranding himself as a moderate leader. He broke from al-Qaeda in 2016 and formed Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), aiming to present a more pragmatic image. Jolani has shifted from extremist rhetoric to political pragmatism, overseeing the establishment of a civilian administration in rebel-held Idlib. He has made efforts to reassure minority communities, including Christians, about their safety under HTS rule. Despite his transformation, HTS faces ongoing accusations of human rights abuses. Many remain skeptical of Jolani's rebranding, viewing it as a strategic move for international legitimacy amid the complex dynamics of Syria's conflict.