HTS expands Syria rule with amnesty programs, minority outreach: What we know
Authorities in Syria, led by the Islamist rebel group, are calling for the dissolution of armed groups and are reportedly allowing alcohol to be served in Damascus as crime and economic issues persist.
The new Syrian administration, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, announced on Tuesday the creation of centers for former government officials to resolve their status.
The move followed HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani's meeting with members of the Druze religious minority as well as an interview in which he said that the country will not necessarily be governed by Islamic law.
Syria’s official news agency, SANA, reported that “settlement centers” were opened in the southern region of Daraa as well as Deir ez-Zor in the northeast for “members of the Assad regime,” referring to the previous administration of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The individuals were instructed to bring all their equipment and documents to the centers, after which they will receive a temporary identification card, according to a statement published by the agency.
Last week, HTS announced general amnesty for all conscripts in Assad’s military.
Golani, now going by his legal name of Ahmed al-Sharaa, met with members of the Druze religious minority on Monday and called for unity between Syria’s different religious communities, according to a statement on Telegram from the HTS-run General Command.
