HTS Establishes Interim Authority in Damascus Amid Concerns Over Inclusivity

The rapid rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) as the dominant power in post-Assad Syria has raised questions about the inclusivity of the group’s governance. Since rebel leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, led the HTS alliance to seize Damascus on Sunday, the group has moved swiftly to consolidate control, deploying police, forming an interim government, and engaging with foreign envoys.

The appointment of Mohammed al-Bashir, former head of HTS’s administration in Idlib, as Syria’s interim prime minister underscores the group’s dominance. While Bashir has pledged to serve only until March 2025, concerns persist about the lack of representation in the new government. Critics argue that the reliance on officials from Idlib may alienate Syria’s diverse communities and undermine efforts to build an inclusive political framework.

Promises of Civil Governance Amid Skepticism

HTS has sought to reassure Syrians, particularly minority groups, that it will respect religious and ethnic diversity. Mohammed Ghazal, a senior HTS official, dismissed fears of Islamic authoritarianism, stating, “There is no such thing as Islamic governance. We are Muslims, but these are civil institutions.” He emphasized the group’s commitment to restoring basic services and rebuilding Syria’s collapsed infrastructure, promising to raise salaries and streamline bureaucracy.

However, diplomats and opposition leaders have expressed doubts. Zakaria Malahifji, secretary general of the Syrian National Movement, criticized the lack of consultation in forming the interim government, warning that excluding diverse voices could destabilize the transition.

Risks of Authoritarian Rule

Analysts have noted the potential for HTS to establish a new form of authoritarianism under the guise of Islamic governance. Yezid Sayigh of the Carnegie Middle East Center cautioned that while HTS is attempting to maintain momentum, the group’s dominance risks alienating opposition factions and fostering instability.

Foreign diplomats have also voiced concerns. “Constitutional reform must be inclusive,” said one diplomat in Damascus, adding that the absence of broader political opposition in HTS-led consultations is troubling. The Biden administration has urged HTS to prioritize inclusivity and adhere to the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which calls for a Syrian-led process to establish non-sectarian governance and free elections.

Challenges Ahead

HTS faces significant hurdles in managing a country ravaged by over a decade of war. While the group has taken steps to restore order in Damascus, including deploying police from Idlib, its ability to unify Syria remains uncertain. The presence of rival armed factions and the lingering legacy of conflict among rebel groups pose further challenges to stability.

Experts suggest that HTS must balance its rapid consolidation of power with efforts to engage technocrats and representatives from Syria’s diverse communities. Joshua Landis, a Middle East scholar, emphasized that Sharaa must “assert authority quickly to prevent chaos” while scaling up administrative capacity through broader participation.

Looking Ahead

Prime Minister Bashir has outlined ambitious priorities, including restoring security, repatriating refugees, and drafting a new constitution. However, the process of constitutional reform is likely to be a critical test of HTS’s commitment to inclusivity. As international actors closely monitor developments, the ability of Syria’s new rulers to deliver credible and non-sectarian governance will shape the country’s future trajectory.

The road ahead remains fraught with uncertainty, but the stakes for Syria’s recovery and reconciliation could not be higher.