Abu Mohammed al-Julani

Russia's military bases in Syria now operate under former Islamist rebels' watch as Damascus redefines Moscow's role.

Five members of the seven-strong preparatory committee are either in HTS or close to the group, and there are no Druze or Alawite members, both of which are significant minorities in Syria.

‘The organization should not be viewed in isolation from federalist tendencies and Netanyahu’s pro-Druze remarks,’ says Syria and Lebanon expert, Dr. Moran Levanoni

They must implement their international obligations in line with the extensive goodwill they have received from both regional partners and the global community.

A one-day dialogue in Damascus could signal a new chapter for Syria – but will HTS’s influence stifle real change?

NATO member Turkey has long backed Syria's armed and political opposition to ousted leader Bashar al-Assad, who was toppled in late December.

There were no immediate claims of responsibility for the attack in Manbij, located some 30 km (19 miles) from the Turkish border.

Julani was born in Saudi Arabia, later lived in Damascus, and joined al-Qaeda before becoming the head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Syria.

Qatar has been actively seeking a sanctions exemption from Washington that would allow Doha to provide financial support through official channels.

No one wishes failure for the new Syria or strives to bring it about. Our region has grown weary of wars and conflict. These newcomers from extreme terrorist groups must now prove themselves.