HTS and the Taliban: A Comparison of Islamic Governance

The Islamic group HTS, formerly known as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, recently seized control of Syria's capital, Damascus. Unlike its counterparts, the Taliban in Afghanistan, HTS is eager to stand out. HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, previously known as Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, has pledged to take a different approach to governance. He wants to create a more moderate government, especially concerning women's rights and national reconciliation. In Syria, HTS allows women to get an education. In fact, more than 60% of university students in the city of Idlib are women. This is a stark contrast to the Taliban's policies in Afghanistan, where teenage girls and women have been banned from schools and universities. HTS is also focused on unity and reconciliation among Syria's diverse groups. They've formed a transition government and invited a former Ba'athist leader to participate in a future National Dialogue Conference. This is an approach the Taliban has not taken in Afghanistan. The international community is watching HTS closely. While some diplomats are impressed, others remain cautious. After all, the Taliban initially presented a moderate face but later showed its true colors.