ALEPPO, Syria — Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has tightened its security grip on the population in Idlib, which is under its control in northwestern Syria. It has begun to pursue those who oppose the policies of its Syrian Salvation Government in the area, which is witnessing popular upheaval due to HTS violations, tough living conditions and high prices of basic commodities, such as fuel and bread.

HTS has also been pursuing its fighters and Syrian Salvation Government employees, leaving no room for criticism, even on social media. If fighters and employees do not abide by the HTS directives, they are either dismissed or arrested, and in some cases forced to retract their statements and apologize.

Syrians in Idlib are always saying “the walls have ears,” as they fear members of the security apparatus affiliated with HTS or informants cooperating with it could hear them if they express their opinion or criticize the high cost of gas, bread, public transportation and taxes, for instance. Many would try to remain anonymous and not appear in front of cameras when they want to criticize HTS and convey their message.

HTS forced civilians to publish videos of themselves apologizing to HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani after they criticized HTS and chanted slogans against Golani in late October.