In Idlib, northwestern Syria, Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has resorted to extreme violence to disrupt ongoing anti-HTS protests, marking the first such escalation since unrest began in February. The protests, fueled by internal divisions within HTS and widespread discontent with its rule, have been increasing in intensity. Notables from Idlib City have called for protesters from other areas to demonstrate in their own localities, suggesting a strategic move by HTS and the Salvation Government to maintain control. Despite limited violence reported, the situation remains volatile. Observers note that the Assad regime may see this destabilization as an opportunity, highlighting the high stakes involved. The crackdown comes after 3 months of anti-Jawlani protests.
Clashes between the protestors and the terrorists of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham in the Idlib countryside. https://t.co/GMTmVJNCf1
As anti-#HTS protests continue in #Idlib, it's worth reading @OAjjoub's recent deep dive into persistent internal tensions within #HTS & popular discontent with its rule. A very important read on an issue with profound implications in #Syria: https://t.co/pKHAyAQyrZ
These protests have been ticking up for weeks & until now, #HTS & Jolani have resolutely failed to de-escalate. #Assad will be watching this closely. A sudden destabilization of NW #Syria would be a huge opportunity. Very high stakes. https://t.co/Rzdbj00TLf
Big anti-#HTS protests in #Idlib today, calling for the removal of #HTS & Salvation Govt rule in NW #Syria. Several reports of limited violence as #HTS seeks to disperse & intimidate protesters to back down (not exactly a winning strategy). https://t.co/kZvLXvs1GH
Notables from Idlib City calling for protesters not from Idlib City to protest where they are from and that the Salvation Government needs to maintain stability. Seems like a facade for HTS to start crackdown after 3 months on the anti-Jawlani protest movement. https://t.co/n8cpPXBTCK
🧵 On the situation in #Idlib: For the first time since the unrest began in February in NW #Syria, #HTS resorts to extreme violence to disrupt demonstrations. This escalation comes amid widespread protests and internal divisions within the group. 1/6 https://t.co/CFRENwEYp4