Syria Leaders Call for Economic Sanctions Lift

Ahmed al-Shara, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has declared that Syria poses no threat to neighboring countries or the West following the recent ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. In interviews, he emphasized a commitment to stability and economic cooperation, stating, 'the revolutionary period' has ended and stressing the need for constructive relationships with other Arab nations. Al-Shara also called for the lifting of sanctions against Syria, arguing that they were aimed at the old regime and should not penalize the current population. He aims to distance HTS from its extremist past and is seeking international legitimacy, insisting that his group does not target civilians. While he acknowledged the need for a Muslim governance model, he highlighted the advancements in education, particularly for women, in areas under HTS control. The UN has expressed optimism about the potential for a new political direction in Syria under HTS leadership, which is set to establish an interim administration until a new constitution is drafted.