Osama bin Laden, al-Zawahiri, and Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi—names that need no introduction as the most notorious terrorists of their time. Though each led terror organizations, one common thread links their stories: each was once a product of American strategic interest. Nurtured when needed, and eliminated when not, they represent America's complex entanglement with global terrorism.
Witnessing a bewildering geopolitical transformation, we see former U.S. President Donald Trump warmly shaking hands with Ahmed Hussein Al Shar’a, a man once declared a global terrorist by the United Nations and the U.S. With a price of one million American dollars on his head, this former enemy now stands as Syria's acting president.
The quintessential American strategy emerges yet again—where interests prevail, alliances shift. On May 14, Trump stood alongside this controversial figure, not as a terrorist, but as Syria’s temporary leader. Known better by his nom de guerre, Abu Mohammad al-Golani or just Golani, his ascent marks one of modern politics' most dramatic arcs.
In December 2024, after two decades in power, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia, leaving a vacuum filled by Golani in January of the following year. Rebranding himself as Ahmed Hussein Al Shar’a, Golani’s deep ties with Baghdadi and Zawahiri during Syria’s civil war left indelible marks on his identity and fate. Hence, the global terrorist designation by international bodies.
The Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, with Golani at its helm fighting Assad’s administration, was also labeled a terrorist entity. Yet, it was the U.S. lifting sanctions and legitimizing Golani's government that signaled a seismic shift. From America's Gulf tour, Trump announced the aid and acknowledgment that transformed the landscape.
Source: aajtak
The 1979 sanctions imposed by America for Assad’s alleged support of terror were longstanding. Aligned with Russia, Assad’s regime was relentless in crushing uprisings with Russian support, while the U.S. armed and economically supported the opposition, fostering today's precarious peace.
The narrative enfolds a multilayered geopolitical chessboard where the stark realities of terrorism and politics converge. Golani’s story fits this mold—a tale of terror redefined by time and circumstance.
However, Trump’s Syria shift unsettles Israel, and Moscow’s displeasure mirrors the former's hesitance. With Assad seeking refuge in Moscow, voices allege Saudi Arabia and Turkey played instrumental roles in legitimizing a government dominated by a 'global terrorist.' Let’s delve deeper into this complex narrative.
On November 13, 1970, Hafez al-Assad, leading Syria’s Air Force, seized power, marking the start of the Assad dynasty. Hafez’s firm grip on military and political matters quelled Sunni-majority opposition under minority Alawite rule. Upon Hafez’s death, his son Bashar continued the stringent policies, leaving a legacy of control and suppression.
The pervasive discontent limped toward eruption when the Arab Spring ignited across Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt, toppling entrenched powers. Amidst drought and administrative decay, Syrians saw an opportunity for change, galvanized further by regional tumult.
A 14-year-old, Muawiya Sayasne, etched a line on his school wall, translating to 'it's your turn, doctor,' hinting at Assad’s unofficial title. The inscription became a clarion call against the Assad regime.
Security forces’ reaction was draconian, sparking national outrage. Muawiya's identity remained protected, yet the arrest and torture of children like him ignited a firestorm of protest. Civilians clashed with security, and the conflict spiraled.
Source: aajtak
