Syria's New Boss: Hayat Tahrir al-Sham // Newsletter 12-9-24

A Brief Overview of the Situation in Syria

The Islamic militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) recently gained control in Syria, collapsing President Bashar al-Assad's longtime secular regime. HTS originated in 2012 as Jabhat al-Nusra, an affiliate of al-Qaeda, and later rebranded itself as HTS in 2017 after severing formal ties with al-Qaeda. The group has been designated a terrorist organization by the United Nations, the United States, Turkey, and other countries.

Under the leadership of Abu Mohammed al-Julani, HTS has controlled much of northwest Syria, particularly the Idlib region, where it established the Syrian Salvation Government in 2017 to manage civil services, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Despite attempts to present a more moderate image, HTS has been accused of severe human rights abuses, including sexual slavery, human trafficking, and torture.

In the last week or so, HTS led a rapid offensive against Assad's forces, capturing key cities such as Aleppo and Hama. This offensive culminated in the fall of Damascus, the collapse of the existing Syrian government, and the escape of President Assad and his family to Moscow. The fall of Assad also represents a blow to Russia and Iran, which have long supported the Assad regime through both direct military assistance and financial aid.

The international community remains cautious regarding HTS's rise to power, given its history and extremist ideology. While HTS claims to pursue a more moderate Islamic agenda, its ability to govern effectively remains to be seen, and its willingness to tolerate religious or political minority groups is dubious. (Something tells me that despite IC mouthpieces like The Telegraph offering soft praise for the incoming regime's woke-ness, the reality on the ground will be different. -Lee)

The sudden collapse of the Assad government has also led to reports of Russian troops being cut off in now-hostile territory and Israeli troops entering Syria for the first time since the Yom Kippur War of the early 1970s. The situation is developing at the time of this writing, but it's generally accepted that Assad is out, HTS is in, the US has now launched nearly 100 aerial strikes against ISIS targets on the ground in Syria, and the IDF is possibly making a strategic play for at least the "buffer zone" between Syria and Israel. As Lenin said: "There are decades where nothing happens; and there are weeks where decades happen."

What Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) Believes:

HTS espouses a hardline Islamist ideology rooted in Salafi (militant fundamentalist Sunni) jihadism, although its leadership has attempted to present a more moderate image in recent years. Here is a breakdown of HTS's beliefs:

• Islamist Governance: HTS seeks to establish an Islamic state in Syria based on its interpretation of Sharia law. Unlike earlier extremist groups like ISIS, HTS emphasizes a gradual and "pragmatic" implementation of Islamic governance. This includes setting up courts, education systems, and local councils in areas it controls, such as the Idlib region.
• Rejection of Secularism and Nationalism: HTS rejects the concept of secular governance, Western democratic ideals, and Syrian nationalism. Instead, it promotes a society organized under religious law. However, it has distanced itself from global jihadist goals, such as al-Qaeda’s ambition for a worldwide Islamic caliphate.
• Localized Focus: While originally an al-Qaeda affiliate (as Jabhat al-Nusra), HTS later severed ties with al-Qaeda in 2016–2017. This was partly to gain local legitimacy and portray itself as a more "Syrian" movement. Its focus shifted to controlling territory within Syria rather than pursuing international jihad.
• Pragmatism Over Extremism: HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Julani has attempted to frame the group as a pragmatic force that can govern and provide stability in opposition-held regions. HTS has shown a willingness to work with local actors and even engage in limited ceasefires with external powers, like Turkey and Russia, when strategically beneficial.
• Hostility Toward Minority Groups: HTS's Salafi-jihadist roots often translate into intolerance toward religious minorities such as Christians, Alawites (Assad's sect), and Shia Muslims. While they attempt to project moderation, reports of persecution, discrimination, and human rights abuses in HTS-controlled areas continue.
• Anti-Assad Stance: HTS's overthrow of the Syrian government is both ideological and practical, as the group views Assad's secular Ba'athist regime as illegitimate.
• Ambiguity Toward Foreign Influence: HTS has a complicated relationship with foreign actors. It cooperates tactically with countries like Turkey, which has a presence in Idlib, but remains hostile to foreign military interventions by Russia, Iran, and the United States. HTS views itself as an independent Islamic movement and often rejects direct foreign control.
• Shift Toward Self-Preservation: HTS has evolved from a pure jihadist militant group into a governing entity controlling northwest Syria. This shift has led to an emphasis on consolidating power, administrative control, and building local alliances over global jihadist ambitions.

In Short: HTS combines Islamic ideology with tactical pragmatism. While it attempts to portray itself as a more moderate alternative to groups like ISIS, the group's roots in fundamentalist Sunni Islam and its documented history of violence against civilians should give the intelligent reader pause before clapping like a seal at the downfall of Bashar al-Assad. NAFO/shitlib Twitter is full of smug takes about this situation, but we've seen what happens before in the Middle East when a secular Ba'athist strongman falls and hardline Islamic militants fill the vacuum, and it isn't usually something to celebrate.

Sources / Further Reading:

BBC News. (2024, December 4). Who is Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group that took over in Syria? BBC. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce313jn453zo

Al Jazeera. (2024, December 4). Who is Abu Mohammad al-Julani, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Syria? Al Jazeera. Retrieved from https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/4/who-is-abu-mohamad-al-julani-the-leader-of-hayat-tahrir-al-sham-in-syria

The Sun. (2024, December 4). Sex slave horror as terror group HTS accused of trafficking women in Syria. The Sun. Retrieved from https://www.thesun.ie/news/14304192/sex-slave-al-qaeda-splinter-group-hts-syria

Associated Press. (2024, December 4). Opposition fighters reportedly drive Syrian leader from the country. Who are they and what now? AP News. Retrieved from https://apnews.com/article/0a5fddb5ee4065e93be374cbcdb01ff7

The Times. (2024, December 4). UK terror watchdog fears creation of new Isis after Assad downfall. The Times. Retrieved from https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/government-syria-hts-rebels-assad-regime-38tmbbr55

The Australian. (2024, December 4). Demise of the Butcher of Damascus welcome, but chaos looms. The Australian. Retrieved from https://www.theaustralian.com.au/world/most-syrians-will-celebrate-the-fall-of-they-hard-line-dictator-but-chaos-could-take-his-place/news-story/fc747f1a23a6e9d2924d72d8b0bedfb9

Canada Bans 324 More Types Of Firearms, Plans To Give The Guns To Ukraine

In Short: The Canadian government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has announced a ban on 324 additional firearms, sparking controversy over gun control, property rights, and plans to donate the weapons to Ukraine amidst opposition from conservatives and gun rights advocates.

Key Details:

• Canada has banned 324 additional types of firearms, claiming the weapons are suited for battlefields, not for hunters or sport shooters, according to Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc.
• The federal government plans to donate the prohibited firearms to Ukraine to support their defense against Russia, as confirmed by Defense Minister Bill Blair.
• A buyback program is in place for these banned firearms, offering compensation only to those who turn them in through the Assault-style Firearms Compensation Program; the amnesty period ends on October 30, 2025.
• The ban coincides with the 35th anniversary of the École Polytechnique massacre, a tragedy often cited in gun control debates, though critics argue this effort is more about political posturing than addressing crime.

Jump to Source: Canada Bans 324 More Types Of Firearms, Plans To Give The Guns To Ukraine

Department of Defense Spent Almost $1B Directly on 3D Printing in 2024, AMR Reports

In Short: The Department of Defense is significantly expanding its investment in 3D printing technologies, projected to reach $800 million in 2024, as additive manufacturing plays a critical and growing role in enhancing military capabilities and addressing modern geopolitical challenges.

• The Department of Defense's spending on 3D printing is projected to rise dramatically from $300 million in 2023 to $800 million in 2024, with the market expected to exceed $2.6 billion by 2030.

Jump to Source: Department of Defense Spent Almost $1B Directly on 3D Printing in 2024, AMR Reports

Biden Regime Quietly Revokes Veterans' Hiring Preference For Civil Service Jobs

In Short: The Biden administration has quietly rescinded a regulation that provided hiring preference to veterans for civil service jobs, potentially impacting their chances of securing such positions ahead of other candidates.

Key Details:

• The Biden administration removed a hiring preference for veterans in civil service jobs.
• This change might reduce veterans' chances in competing with other applicants for federal positions.
• The hiring preference had previously given veterans an advantage in securing civil service roles.
• The decision has sparked concerns over the potential implications for veterans seeking federal employment.

Jump to Source: Biden Regime Quietly Revokes Veterans Hiring Preference For Civil Service Jobs

Anduril Partners with OpenAI to Advance U.S. Artificial Intelligence Leadership and Protect U.S. and Allied Forces

In Short: Anduril Industries and OpenAI have formed a strategic partnership to integrate advanced AI technologies into defense systems, enhancing the ability of U.S. and allied forces to counter aerial threats while emphasizing responsible and ethical AI deployment for national security.

Key Details:

• The partnership aims to enhance counter-unmanned aircraft systems (CUAS) to detect, assess, and respond to aerial threats in real-time.
• Brian Schimpf, CEO of Anduril, emphasized the urgency of addressing Air Defense capability gaps, while OpenAI CEO Sam Altman highlighted the commitment to 'democratic values' and 'responsible AI use' for national security.
• Amid intensifying U.S.-China competition in AI leadership, the initiative seeks to ensure the U.S. maintains its technological edge and bolsters military and intelligence decision-making with AI-driven tools.
• Both companies stress a shared commitment to AI safety and ethics, with robust oversight and protocols to ensure the responsible deployment of advanced AI technologies.

Jump to Source: Anduril Partners with OpenAI to Advance U.S. Artificial Intelligence Leadership and Protect U.S. and Allied Forces

7th Circuit Extends Stay; Gun Owners Stuck with Gun Ban Through State’s Appeal

In Short: The Seventh Circuit Court has extended the stay on Illinois' gun and magazine ban during the appeals process, but shifting judicial dynamics and potential long-term conservative influence in federal courts offer hope for gun rights advocates.

Key Details:

• The U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals has extended the stay on Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s gun and magazine ban, meaning the law will remain in effect during the state’s appeal of its unconstitutionality ruling.
• U.S. District Court Judge Stephen McGlynn previously ruled the “Protect Illinois Communities Act” unconstitutional but allowed a 30-day stay for Attorney General Kwame Raoul to appeal, which he promptly did.
• The case now has a more neutral appellate court composition, as Amy St. Eve, a Trump appointee, has replaced anti-gun Judge Diane Wood, who retired earlier this year.

Jump to Source: 7th Circuit Extends Stay; Gun Owners Stuck with Gun Ban Through State’s Appeal

Why iPhone Owners Should Stop Texting Android Users Amid FBI Warning

In Short: The FBI is urging Americans to use encrypted messaging apps instead of texting between iPhones and Android devices due to vulnerabilities highlighted by a recent Chinese cyberattack targeting unencrypted communications.

Key Details:

• The FBI and CISA have issued a warning following a Chinese cyberattack—dubbed "Salt Typhoon"—that breached at least eight U.S. telecom companies, intercepting text messages and phone calls, including those of senior government officials.
• Messages between iPhone and Android users are not end-to-end encrypted by default, making them vulnerable to interception; Americans are urged to stop texting between these systems and use encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp or Signal.
• Text messages between iPhone users (via iMessage) or Android users (via Google Messages) are encrypted by default, but SMS (the standard for cross-platform messaging) remains unencrypted due to its dated infrastructure from the 1990s.

Jump to Source: Why iPhone Owners Should Stop Texting Android Users Amid FBI Warning

KommandoStore's New South African Niemoller Rigs

In Short: KommandoStore has launched new-production Niemoller Rigs, tactical web gear inspired by Johann Niemoller's special-forces design from South Africa's clandestine military operations, now updated to offer rugged and practical equipment carrying solutions for modern users, priced from $299.

Key Details:

• The Niemoller Rig emphasizes long-distance comfort, durability, and stealth, originally crafted for South Africa's Recce units.
• Johann Niemoller personally oversees the current production, ensuring authenticity and attention to detail.
• The Rig is designed to carry 25-35 pounds of gear with minimal bulk, ideal for extended operations without resupply.

Jump to Source: KommandoStore's New South African Niemoller Rigs

Velocity Systems Reintroduces HK417 Chest Rig

In Short: Velocity Systems is reintroducing their RECCE Chest Rig for the HK417 due to popular demand and the military's recent adoption of the M110A1 sniper rifle, offering a design that accommodates six 20-round HK417 magazines and multiple pouches, with availability in four color options and manufactured in the USA.

Key Details:

• The rig features thoughtful elements like reduced IR signature buckles and is made in the USA.
• Available colors include Multicam, Ranger Green, Coyote Tan, and Black, all retailing at $253.
• No release date is provided, but interested customers can join an email notification list on Velocity Systems’ website.

Jump to Source: Velocity Systems Reintroduces HK417 Chest Rig

BAE Signs $2.5 Billion In New CV90 Combat Vehicle Deals With Sweden, Denmark

In Short: BAE Systems has secured $2.5 billion in contracts to supply upgraded CV90 combat vehicles to Sweden and Denmark, with Denmark ordering 115 units and Sweden acquiring 50.

Key Details:

• Denmark will receive 115 new CV9035MkIIIC vehicles, while Sweden will acquire 50 upgraded units as part of the deal.
• The CV90 vehicles demonstrate advanced capabilities, including firing Spike long-range anti-tank guided missiles, as showcased during a December demonstration in northern Sweden.

Jump to Source: BAE Signs $2.5 Billion In New CV90 Combat Vehicle Deals With Sweden, Denmark

Pentagon Green-Lights Counter-Drone Strategy Amid 'Urgent' Threat

In Short: The Pentagon has approved a classified strategy to address the growing and urgent threat of drones, aiming to standardize how the military safeguards its facilities.

Key Details:

• Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin approved a classified counter-drone strategy on Monday to address rising and urgent drone threats.
• The strategy aims to streamline the military's approach to defending its facilities and operations against drones.
• The approval reflects growing concerns over the increasing use of drones in warfare and potential security breaches.

Jump to Source: Pentagon Green-Lights Counter-Drone Strategy Amid 'Urgent' Threat

US Bombs 75 ISIS Targets Across Syria After Assad Overthrown

In Short: The United States has launched large-scale airstrikes targeting ISIS in central Syria following the overthrow of President Assad, amid a complex and uncertain situation involving rebel groups, regional dynamics, and the potential reformation of Syrian governance.

Key Details:

• The U.S. military conducted over 75 airstrikes against ISIS targets in central Syria, utilizing assets such as B-52 bombers, F-15s, and A-10s, with no reported civilian casualties.
• The strikes aim to prevent ISIS from exploiting Syria’s current instability following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad and the takeover of Damascus by the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
• President Joe Biden acknowledged the fall of Assad’s regime, describing it as a moment of both opportunity and risk, and pledged support to neighboring countries like Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, and Israel if new threats arise.
• The White House distanced itself from HTS-led operations in Syria, emphasizing U.S. non-involvement despite the group’s terrorist designation and history of human rights abuses.
• Unrest persists in Syria after Assad fled to Moscow, with reports of looting from the capital and uncertainty surrounding the country’s future political landscape.

Jump to Source: US Bombs 75 ISIS Targets Across Syria After Assad Overthrown