Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has emerged as a pivotal figure in Syria's ongoing conflict, particularly following his role in the recent offensive that rebels claim has toppled President Bashar al-Assad. Born Ahmed al-Sharaa in 1982, Jolani grew up in a well-off family in the upscale Mazzeh district of Damascus. His journey into jihadism began after the September 11 attacks, which inspired him to attend secretive sermons and discussions on radical ideologies. Following the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, he joined Al-Qaeda in Iraq and was detained for five years, which shaped his militant trajectory upon returning to Syria in 2011.

Upon his return, Jolani founded the Al-Nusra Front, Syria's affiliate of Al-Qaeda, positioning himself as a key player in the opposition against Assad's regime. His group quickly gained traction among rebel factions and became known for its military effectiveness. In 2013, Jolani famously refused to merge Al-Nusra with the Islamic State (IS) under Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, instead pledging allegiance to Al-Qaeda's leadership. This decision not only solidified his leadership role but also marked a significant moment in the fractious landscape of Syrian jihadism. Over the years, he has navigated complex alliances and rivalries within the opposition, ultimately rebranding his group as HTS in 2017.

Jolani's leadership style has evolved significantly over time. Initially known for his extreme views and militant rhetoric, he has recently adopted a more pragmatic approach, seeking to project a moderate image while still pursuing his objectives. During the recent offensive that led to the capture of Damascus by rebel forces, he ordered his fighters to avoid attacking public institutions, signaling a desire to maintain order amidst chaos. This shift is seen as an attempt to distance himself from the violent tactics often associated with jihadist groups and to position HTS as a legitimate political actor in post-Assad Syria.

Despite this rebranding effort, HTS remains classified as a terrorist organization by many Western governments due to its roots in Al-Qaeda and its history of violent actions. Jolani's attempts to establish a semblance of governance in areas under HTS control have faced criticism for human rights abuses and suppression of dissent. Nevertheless, he continues to assert that his primary goal is to liberate Syria from Assad's authoritarian rule and establish a state based on his interpretation of Islamic law. As the Syrian conflict evolves, Jolani's role as a leader will be critical in shaping both the future of HTS and the broader dynamics of power within Syria.