Was Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP) involved in fall of Bashar al-Assad working alongside SNA and HTS? What is their future in Syria
Introduction
The Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP) was involved in the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, working alongside other rebel groups including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Syrian National Army (SNA).
Syrian Branch Leadership
For the Syrian branch of TIP, the following individuals have been mentioned in leadership roles:
Abu Omar al-Turkistani (described as a veteran Taliban member)
Abu Muhammad al-Turkistani (also a veteran Taliban member and military commander of TIP)
Here are the key points regarding TIP’s involvement and their future in Syria
TIP’s Role in Assad’s Fall
TIP fighters participated in the 2024 Syrian opposition offensives that led to the overthrow of Assad’s government.
They fought alongside HTS, which spearheaded the rebel coalition that toppled the Assad regime.
TIP fighters were seen entering strategic port cities of Latakia and Tartus on December 10 and 11, 2024.
Alliances and Cooperation
TIP has been operating in Syria for over a decade, aligning with other rebel factions.
The group has maintained close ties with al-Qaeda-linked groups, particularly HTS.
TIP has been described as HTS’s “preferred ally” by Syrian state television in 2021.
Future in Syria
Following Assad’s fall, TIP has shifted its focus towards China and the Uyghur cause.
In recent propaganda videos, TIP fighters have vowed to continue their jihad in Xinjiang, China.
TIP’s leader, Abd Haq al-Turkistani, has emphasized the group’s commitment to “liberating” East Turkistan (Xinjiang) from Chinese control.
Implications and Concerns
The combat experience gained by TIP fighters in Syria raises concerns about potential future threats to China.
Chinese officials have expressed their intention to “strike down” the Uyghur rebels and are advocating for a peaceful power transition in Syria.
The international community, including the UN, continues to monitor TIP’s activities and its connections to other extremist groups.
Conclusion
While TIP’s immediate future in Syria remains uncertain, their stated intention is to redirect their efforts towards their long-term goal of fighting against Chinese control in Xinjiang. However, the group’s presence in Syria and its alliances with other rebel factions may continue to play a role in the country’s post-Assad landscape.
