Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, the head of the HTS-led administration in Syria, stated in an interview with a publication serving the Jewish community in Damascus that “the reality is, we have common enemies—and we can play a major role in regional security.”

Jolani's remarks reaffirm the stance he has maintained since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024. At that time, he signaled a major policy shift by expressing openness toward Israel, while identifying Hezbollah and Iran as his primary adversaries.

In a December 9, 2024, interview, Jolani declared, “We are open to friendship with everyone in the region—including Israel. We have no enemies other than the Assad regime, Hezbollah, and Iran.”

Despite ongoing Israeli airstrikes, territorial encroachments, and the exploitation of Syrian resources, Jolani reiterated his position in an interview with the Jewish Journal.

During his conversation with the Journal, Jolani also expressed support for reviving the principles of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement (Dofa Accord), describing it not just as a ceasefire boundary but as a framework for mutual restraint and civilian protection.

“Syria’s Druze are not pawns,” he said. “They are citizens—deeply rooted, historically loyal, and deserving of every protection under the law. Their safety is non-negotiable.”

“Peace must be earned through mutual respect, not fear. We will engage where there is honesty and a clear path to coexistence—and walk away from anything less,” Jolani added.

His statements come two weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump, during his visit to Riyadh, announced his decision to lift all U.S. sanctions on Syria. The announcement followed reports that the new Syrian administration was considering establishing “peace” with Israel.

Trump stated, “Now it is their time to shine. We are taking them (the sanctions) all off. Good luck, Syria. Show us something very special.”

Shortly after Trump’s statement, the European Union lifted economic sanctions imposed on Syria, recognizing the HTS-led administration. The European Council subsequently adopted legal measures to remove all economic restrictions on Syria.

Before Trump’s remarks, Jolani reportedly suggested initiating "peace" with Tel Aviv and even proposed symbolic gestures, including the construction of a Trump Tower in Damascus.

The HTS, previously affiliated with al-Qaeda in Syria, seized control of Syria in December last year during a surge of Israeli airstrikes targeting both civilian and military infrastructure in the country.

Prior to its takeover, the group spearheaded a prolonged and deadly insurgency against Syria’s former elected government, which had maintained a staunchly anti-Israel stance.

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