Al-Julani's Historic Visit to the Umayyad Mosque
On December 8, 2024, Ahmed al-Sharaa, known as "al-Julani," made a significant visit to the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus shortly after the announcement of the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. This visit is laden with local and international implications, as it symbolizes a pivotal moment in Syria's ongoing conflict. Al-Julani's presence in the mosque, a site of great importance to the people of Damascus and the Arab world, was not just a personal pilgrimage but a political statement aimed at emphasizing the need to reject Iranian influence in Syria.
In his first sermon, Al-Julani condemned the former president, accusing him of transforming Syria into a "farm for Iranian ambitions." He framed the victory over Assad as a triumph for the Islamic nation and sought to unify the Syrian populace by asserting that Assad's tyranny affected all Syrians, regardless of sect. This message was particularly poignant given the mosque's historical significance as a symbol of unity and resilience for the Syrian people.
The Evolution of Al-Julani's Leadership
Syrian writer and politician Ibrahim Al-Jabin highlighted the transformation in Al-Julani's persona over the years. Once a figure shrouded in mystery, Al-Julani has emerged as a more open-minded leader, carefully choosing his words and messages. This evolution reflects a broader strategy within the Syrian opposition to ensure the complete dismantling of the Assad regime, which Al-Jabin insists must go beyond merely removing Assad from power.
The Syrian armed opposition has taken steps to maintain control over the political landscape, allowing Assad's Prime Minister, Mohammed Ghazi al-Jalali, to continue his duties until a formal handover can occur. This decision aligns with UN Resolution 2254, which emphasizes the importance of a Syrian-led political process and the establishment of a non-sectarian government. The opposition's actions indicate a commitment to preventing any resurgence of the Assad regime while fostering a political environment conducive to peace and stability in Syria.
