Trump Praises Tahrir al-Sham Leader Jolani as ‘Great Future Leader’
U.S. President Donald Trump has praised Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, leader of the militant group Tahrir al-Sham, calling him a “great future leader” in a message delivered through his special envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack.
The message, which included a photograph from a previous meeting between Trump and Jolani and was signed by the U.S. president, was personally handed to Jolani. In the message, Trump expressed U.S. support for Jolani’s leadership.
During the meeting, Jolani and Barrack discussed the current situation in the region and topics of mutual interest. Although it is unclear at what level these consultations were held, Trump’s message has sparked reactions due to Jolani’s controversial role in Syria’s ongoing security crises.
Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, a polarizing figure in Syria, leads the armed group Tahrir al-Sham. His presence in areas of northwestern Syria has coincided with reports of increased violence, killings, and human rights abuses against Syrian civilians.
Trump’s praise for a figure widely regarded by several European countries and human rights organizations as a source of instability in Syria has once again raised questions about the foreign policy positions of the U.S. administration.
