Syria's Rebel Leader Jolani Reinvents Image to Challenge Assad

Ahmed Al Sharaa, known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, has transformed from a jihadist leader with ties to Al Qaeda to a more moderate figure leading the Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS). Originally tasked with establishing Al Qaeda's Syrian affiliate, Jolani distanced his group from radical Islamist ties in 2016, aiming to present a more palatable image to the West. Despite his rebranding efforts, HTS remains designated as a terror organization by the U.S. Jolani's leadership in Idlib and his stance against ISIS and Assad's regime highlight his evolving role in the region's complex political landscape.