Abu Mohammed al-Golani, leader of the rebel faction Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has vowed to hold accountable those responsible for widespread torture under Bashar al-Assad's regime. Speaking from Aleppo, now under rebel control, Golani declared his commitment to justice for victims of the Assad era, pledging to target perpetrators of human rights abuses. This marks a significant shift for the former al-Qaeda affiliate leader, who now seeks to appeal to broader Syrian communities.
Golani, a key figure in Syria’s insurgency, has steadily rebranded HTS into a force seeking political legitimacy. Once associated with extremist tactics, he has adopted conciliatory rhetoric, emphasizing protection for civilians and outreach to minorities. HTS’s recent military victories have bolstered this transformation, particularly in Aleppo, where Golani was seen directing operations and urging restraint among fighters. His leadership signals an effort to establish a new civil order in opposition-held territories.
As Syria faces a reshaped power landscape, Golani’s promise of accountability highlights his focus on addressing Assad's legacy of repression. Reports detail systemic torture and extrajudicial killings under the ousted regime, creating a backlog of atrocities that Golani insists will not go unpunished. His statements have drawn attention from international observers, some skeptical of his group’s human rights record.
This public pivot coincides with HTS’s efforts to reassure Syrian minorities long alienated by Islamist factions. Through symbolic gestures and media engagements, Golani has distanced his leadership from its al-Qaeda origins, framing HTS as a defender of all Syrians against tyranny. These overtures aim to bridge divisions and consolidate support within the fragmented opposition landscape.
Despite this shift, Golani’s controversial past continues to fuel scrutiny. While HTS’s transformation is evident, critics question the sincerity of its reforms, emphasizing the group’s historical connections to extremism. Nonetheless, Golani’s pledge to pursue justice for Assad’s victims resonates with many, positioning him as a pivotal figure in Syria’s turbulent future.
