Skip to main content

Political, military wings of Islamist movement clash in Idlib

Ahrar al-Sham, which was once one of the largest factions of the Syrian armed opposition in Idlib, has formed a new leadership council that is being perceived as a coup against the movement’s political leaders, who fear the group's integration into Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.

ABDULMONAM EASSA/AFP via Getty Images
A rebel fighter from the Ahrar al-Sham brigade walks past the debris of damaged buildings in the rebel-held besieged town of Harasta, in the eastern Ghouta region on the outskirts of Damascus, on Nov. 16, 2017. — ABDULMONAM EASSA/AFP via Getty Images

IDLIB, Syria — Ahrar al-Sham, which is affiliated with the National Front for Liberation in Idlib (itself affiliated with the Turkish-backed Free Syrian Army), has formed a new leadership council after major differences emerged within its ranks.

Top commander Amer al-Sheikh (also known as Abu Ubaidah Daraa), announced the formation of a new leadership body.

Subscribe for unlimited access

All news, events, memos, reports, and analysis, and access all 10 of our newsletters. Learn more

$14 monthly or $100 annually ($8.33/month)
OR

Continue reading this article for free

All news, events, memos, reports, and analysis, and access all 10 of our newsletters. Learn more.

By signing up, you agree to Al-Monitor’s Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. Already have an account? Log in