Syrian jihadi group sees wave of defections in Idlib
Schisms within Hayat Tahrir al-Sham are widening as its leader shifts to convey a moderate image and eliminate more radical rival groups.
![A member of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham holds the group's flag as others parade with their flags and those of the Taliban's declared "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan" through the rebel-held city of Idlib, Syria, Aug. 20, 2021.](/sites/default/files/styles/article_hero_medium/public/2021-12/GettyImages-1234775742%20%281%29.jpg?h=a5ae579a&itok=999afxXO)
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) continues to split with rival jihadi groups, according to the classification of the segments supporting this group.
Mahmoud Adnan Ajaj, a judge working in one of Idlib's civil courts associated with HTS' Salvation Government, announced Dec. 1 his defection.