Ahmed al-Sharaa
The Diplomat
People, composure and the difficult conversation held well.
Ahmed al-Sharaa is the newly appointed President of Syria, navigating a complex political landscape marked by conflict and historical grievances. This interview reveals his approach to leadership as one that seeks to mediate and build coalitions, reflecting a nuanced understanding of both domestic and international dynamics.
“In Iraq, I was put in prison early on. I was sent to the infamous Abu Rab prison where people were being tortured. Then I moved to Buka prison. After that I was moved to Kropa prison in Baghdad, and finally to Taji prison before being released.”
“Given the challenge we have been through, if we hadn't maintained those values, we wouldn't be where we are today. For example, when we were advancing towards Damascus through Aleppo, Hama and Homs, we had a big force of fighters, and Syria was deeply divided due to the regime's actions. A major issue could have easily arisen.”
“Established all the institutions in Idlib that we would need, and we fully prepared ourselves for government. In terms of security and institutions and services, I was certain that a day would come when we would be in Damascus.”
“Not operate the same way as others. As a result, I came in for criticism from some of the other prisoners who believed in what later became ISIS's ideology. During my time in Iraq, especially while in prison I focused on planning my return to Syria.”
The Rest Is Politics: Leading — 120. The New President of Syria: Trump, Palestine, and having a $10 million bounty on your head (Ahmed al-Sharaa)
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