Syrian rebel leader seeks to reshape image despite past ties to al Qaeda

Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, leader of the Syrian rebel group HTS, has a $10 million bounty on him due to past ties with al Qaeda. He is now trying to present himself as a reformed leader, promising a multicultural government in Syria. In a recent interview, al-Jolani emphasized his commitment to protecting minority groups and ensuring coexistence. He has instructed his followers to avoid radical actions, such as desecrating cultural sites and imposing strict dress codes on women. Despite these claims, experts warn that HTS has a history of human rights abuses. Israel remains cautious, conducting airstrikes against Syrian military targets to prevent any threats from al-Jolani's forces near its border.