Syrian Rebels Make Strides in Aleppo: HTS Pursues Governance Amid Challenges

Syrian Rebels Make Strides in Aleppo: HTS Pursues Governance Amid Challenges

Aleppo: A week after capturing Syria's second-largest city, Aleppo, the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) is moving forward with efforts to stabilize and govern the war-torn city. Once linked to al-Qaeda, HTS is still designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, Turkey, and the United Nations. However, following their significant territorial gain, the group is now focusing on administering the city and ensuring basic services for its residents.

HTS has taken several steps to improve life in Aleppo, including lifting curfews, ensuring bread supply to bakeries, reinstating traffic police, and enhancing electricity services. The group's telecommunications network, 'Syria Phone', is now operational in Aleppo, improving internet connectivity for the city's residents.

Governance Experience: From Idlib to Aleppo

Abu Mohammad al-Golani, the leader of HTS, is applying the governance experience gained from Idlib province, where they have run a local administration for nearly five years. Known as the "Salvation Government", this administration introduced the use of Turkish lira, formed an elected cabinet, and established mobile networks in the region.

Challenges and Diverse Population

Aleppo presents new and significant challenges for HTS. The city has been severely damaged by years of conflict and is home to a diverse population, including Christians, Armenians, Kurds, and Shia Muslims. To alleviate local concerns, HTS has assured residents of their security, allowing Christians to continue praying in their churches. In fact, some rebel fighters have even participated in Christian prayers, signaling a more inclusive approach.

Expansion Plans and Future Goals

HTS has also extended its control beyond Aleppo, with its forces advancing 80 miles south to the city of Hama. Analysts suggest that the rebels are aiming to seize more territory from President Bashar al-Assad's forces.

The group's attempts to govern more effectively and inclusively are seen as efforts to gain greater acceptance within the international community. Analyst Nawwar Saban notes, "HTS knows that if their services fail, they will lose the trust of the people."

As HTS continues to pursue governance in Aleppo and beyond, the success of their efforts remains uncertain. Whether their approach to leadership will win long-term support or fail under the weight of Syria’s complex challenges will only become clear with time.