HTS leader Jolani makes notable statement on Israel: 'They are no longer here...'
HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, stated that they will not be a hub for attacks against Israel or other countries. Al-Sharaa called for the lifting of sanctions and a focus on the country's reconstruction.
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HTS leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani emphasized that they will not allow Syria to be used to launch attacks against Israel or any other country. Jolani stated that Israel's airstrikes must stop and that it must withdraw from the territories it occupies.
“Hezbollah and Iranian militias, which were Israel's pretext for attacks, are no longer here,” said Jolani, adding that they will remain committed to the 1974 agreement and are ready for United Nations observers to return to the region.
CALL TO LIFT SANCTIONS
In his first interview with the British newspaper The Times, al-Sharaa addressed the West, calling for the lifting of sanctions imposed during the Assad regime. “Sanctions applied to both the perpetrator and the victim must end. This issue is non-negotiable,” he said.
Al-Sharaa requested that countries take steps in this regard, taking into account Syria's geostrategic importance.
ASSURANCES TO MINORITIES
Regarding Western concerns that groups led by al-Sharaa might attack minorities, Jolani rejected such a possibility. He stated that he has met with minority leaders, including Christians and Druze.
“We will declare an amnesty for all Syrians except for those who have shed blood and torturers,” said Jolani, adding that ensuring the country's unity is their priority.
ELECTIONS AND TRANSITION PROCESS
HTS leader Jolani stated that elections are not possible at the moment, saying, “Half of the population is outside the country. There are many people without identity documents.” Emphasizing that Syrians in Turkey, Europe, and neighboring countries must be brought back, al-Sharaa said that committees to manage the transition process will be established.
EMPHASIS ON A NEW CONSTITUTION
Jolani denied allegations that Islamic law would be imposed on the country and stated that a governance model suitable for Syria's natural structure would be developed. Jolani said, “Personal freedoms will not be violated. It will take Syrian customs and traditions into account.”