Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, born Ahmed Hussein al-Shar’a in 1982, is a prominent Syrian militant leader who has played a significant role in the Syrian civil war. His journey through various Islamist groups has made him one of the most influential and controversial figures in the Syrian conflict.

Early Involvement and Al-Qaeda Affiliation

Jolani’s militant career began with:

1. Fighting against U.S. forces in Iraq, where he was jailed by American forces.

2. Becoming a commander within the Islamic State of Iraq.

3. Founding Jabhat al-Nusra in 2012, which was initially the Syrian wing of al-Qaeda.

Transformation and Current Role

Jolani has undergone a significant ideological shift:

1. He broke ties with al-Qaeda in 2016.

2. Founded Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in 2017, consolidating various Syrian Islamist factions.

3. Currently serves as the commander-in-chief (emir) of HTS.

Control and Governance

Jolani’s HTS now:

1. Controls large parts of Idlib province and areas in northwest Syria.

2. Administers the Syrian Salvation Government (SSG) in these territories.

3. Has crushed both IS and pro-al-Qaeda factions in areas under its control.

Ideology and Approach

Jolani’s current stance includes:

1. Rejecting global jihad and focusing on fighting against the Assad regime.

2. Advocating for Islamic governance, but with a more moderate approach compared to groups like IS or Saudi Arabia.

3. Relaxing some strict interpretations of Islamic law in areas under HTS control.

International Status

Despite his efforts to rebrand himself:

1. Jolani is designated as a “Specially Designated Global Terrorist” by the U.S. State Department since 2013.

2. There is a $10 million reward offered by the U.S. for information leading to his capture.

Recent Activities

In the ongoing Syrian conflict:

1. Jolani has led HTS in a major offensive against Assad’s forces, including an assault on Aleppo.

2. He has issued guidelines to fighters emphasizing protection for all Syrians regardless of sect.

3. Jolani seeks wider acceptance and removal from terrorist lists, claiming HTS poses no threat to Western security.

In conclusion, Abu Mohammad al-Jolani remains a complex and controversial figure, attempting to transition from his jihadist past to a more politically acceptable role while maintaining significant influence in Syria’s ongoing conflict.