Concerns Grow Over Foreign Fighters Rising in Syria’s New Army
Syria’s new rulers have made headlines for appointing several foreign Islamist fighters to high-ranking military positions, causing concern among their home governments. Reports from Reuters and AFP indicate that individuals from North Macedonia, Tajikistan, and China’s Uyghur minority have been promoted to official posts within Syria’s army.
Among those appointed is Abdul Samrez Jashari, also known as Abu Qatada al-Albani, a Macedonian-born leader of the predominantly ethnic Albanian militant group Xhemati Alban. Jashari has been designated a terrorist by the U.S. Treasury Department and is known for his alliance with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group that overthrew Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in 2024.
Another foreign fighter, Saifiddin Tojiboev from Tajikistan, has reportedly been promoted to the rank of colonel. Tojiboev, who is wanted in Tajikistan for alleged involvement in terrorist activities, has been linked to recruiting fighters for extremist groups.
Despite concerns from their home countries, HTS has publicly stated its commitment to moderate policies, including women’s rights and international relations. The group aims to create a professional army from various militant factions it has aligned with, which include fighters from Russia, Central Asia, and the Balkans.
While fears of potential “blowback” at home persist, some experts suggest that HTS’s appointments of foreign fighters may be aimed at ensuring their loyalty to the Syrian state and preventing any independent actions. The group’s leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has expressed intentions of integrating foreign fighters into Syrian society, potentially signaling a shift towards indigenizing these individuals.
As Syria’s new rulers navigate the post-conflict landscape, the presence of foreign fighters in key military positions raises questions about the future stability and security of both Syria and their home countries. The international community will be closely watching the developments in Syria as these individuals play a significant role in shaping the country’s future.
