Syria, HTS appoints woman Aisha Al Debs to lead Women’s Affairs Office

Islamist group promises more female participation in new jihadist government in Idlib

The jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al Sham (HTS), currently in power in Idlib province, announced the creation of an Office of Women’s Affairs, appointing humanitarian activist Aisha Al Debs to lead it. The woman, known for her work in the region during the years of conflict, said the new government will offer women “the opportunity to participate in the common work in all its aspects,” ensuring a significant presence in the national dialogue for building the new Syrian reality.

In a statement broadcast by Syria TV, Al Debs stressed that women’s contribution will be essential to Syria’s future under the HTS leadership, promising that their role will not be limited to traditional fields alone, but will also range in important areas, consistent with each person’s expertise. “Our mission is to give a voice to all women and make them participate in the decision-making process,” Al Debs said, seeking to allay fears regarding the limitations imposed by the jihadist group.

Controversy over Obaida Arnaut’s remarks

Al Debs’ appointment comes amid controversy raised by recent statements by HTS spokesperson Obaida Arnaut, who claimed that women, for biological reasons, cannot assume defense or security roles in the jihadist government. “If we decided to assign the Ministry of Defense to a woman, would it accord with her biological nature? Undoubtedly, no. Can she commit herself as a man? She cannot,” Arnaut said, hinting that women’s roles would be limited to tasks deemed more in keeping with their ”nature.”

Arnaut’s statements contrast with the promises made by HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani, now known as Ahmed al-Sharaa, who in recent weeks has sought to reassure the international community of his government’s intention to ensure greater equity and inclusion, especially with regard to women. Al Debs’ words seem to be heading in the same direction, but it remains to be seen whether the promises will actually be kept.

Jawlani reassures Lebanese Druze leaders on non-interference in Lebanon

Meanwhile, HTS leader al-Sharaa met with Lebanese Druze leaders Walid and Taymur Jumblatt and reassured them that the new Syrian government will not interfere in Lebanon’s internal affairs and will respect its sovereignty. Al-Sharaa said Syria under HTS leadership will respect Lebanon’s territorial unity, independence and stability, thus seeking to allay fears of negative interference.

The meeting has significant value, as it signals an attempt by HTS to build a new political image, breaking away from its past as a radical group and seeking to gain the trust of regional neighbors, such as Lebanon. However, international observers remain skeptical, given HTS’s history and the extremist positions expressed by its leaders over the years.

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