Who Comprises HTS and the Role of Foreign Fighters

Ebu Muhammed el-Colani, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), recently addressed the composition of his group and the significance of foreign fighters in the ongoing Syrian conflict.

Composition of HTS

HTS is primarily composed of various factions, including former members of other rebel groups and jihadist organizations. The group has evolved over the years and currently includes:

• Local Syrian Fighters: Predominantly from Idlib and surrounding areas, these fighters have been involved in the Syrian civil war since its inception.
• Foreign Fighters: While the exact number is contested, estimates suggest that there are several hundred foreign fighters within HTS. These individuals come from a range of countries, including Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

Foreign Fighters’ Contribution

Colani underscored the contributions of foreign fighters, stating that they “deserve to be rewarded” for their involvement. He noted that their numbers are not as high as some might think, indicating a more limited but significant presence. He stated: “Many countries grant citizenship to those living on their territory for a period of five years; we will examine this.”