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Al-Jolani's Handshakes During European Delegations' Reception Spark Controversy in Syria
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Diplomatic reception ceremonies reveal Al-Jolani's attempts to appear as a moderate statesman to gain international legitimacy
Damascus witnessed a strange scene reflecting the contradictions of the current phase, as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, received the foreign ministers of Germany and France in their first European visit since his control of the capital, yesterday Friday.
The hesitant handshake between French Minister Jean-Noël Barro and al-Jolani sparked widespread controversy, with French journalists describing it as "cold and limp," while German Minister Baerbock refrained from shaking hands, instead placing her hand on her chest.
Baerbock clarified in her press conference that Europe "will not fund new Islamic entities," emphasizing the need to "establish political dialogue that includes all ethnic and religious groups."
The European statements confirm doubts complicating dealings with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham's attempts to reinvent itself as a political force. The French minister revealed that he and his German counterpart received "guarantees" from the new authorities regarding political participation and other issues.
These developments come a month after the "Military Operations Administration" formed by "Hayat Tahrir al-Sham" took control of Damascus in December 2024, in an attempt to impose a governance model under a new political cover, which appears to contradict Syrians' aspirations for a democratic state that respects diversity and human rights.
Levant-Agencies
