Isistist Leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani: A Complex Figure with a History of Extremism
Abu Mohammed al-Golani, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a Islamist rebel group, has a long history of extremism despite his recent appeal to moderate policies. Golani was first drawn to jihadism after the 9/11 attacks and later joined al-Qaeda in Iraq before returning to Syria in 2011 to join the revolt against Bashar Assad’s regime.
Golani led a lightning offensive through Syria, capturing the capital, Damascus, and toppling the regime, with Assad fleeing the country. The US Department of State designated Golani as a specially designated global terrorist in 2013, citing his role in multiple terrorist attacks in Syria, which often targeted civilians.
Roggio, managing editor of Long War Journal, described Golani as “a member of al-Qaeda” and emphasized that the US keeps him on the list for a reason. Golani’s recent appeal to moderate policies, as seen in an interview with CNN, may be seen as dubious, according to Roggio, who claimed that Golani is an expert at manipulating and playing the moderate game well.
As the rebels take charge of Syria, the concern shifts from the fall of the Assad regime to what comes next for the long-suffering population. While it is understandable that many Syrians are ecstatic about the fall of Assad’s regime, Roggio warned that what replaces him may not be much better.
