Kabul [Afghanistan]: The Afghan Taliban congratulated the leadership of the rebel group Hayat Tahrir as-Sham (HTS) on Sunday for overthrowing the Bashar al-Assad regime in Syria, expressing hope for a unified and stable Islamic system in the country.
In a statement issued by Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) commended the HTS for its role in what it described as a revolutionary victory. The Taliban also expressed optimism for a peaceful transition to a sovereign government that aligns with the aspirations of the Syrian people.
Statement Highlights
- Support for HTS Leadership
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) congratulates the leadership of Hayat Tahrir as-Sham (HTS) and the people of Syria on recent advancements, resulting in the removal of a factor of conflict and instability, and the fall of Damascus to the people of Syria under HTS leadership,” the statement read. - Vision for Transition
The Taliban called for a governance model that reflects the ideals of unity, justice, and amnesty.- Inclusive Governance: The statement urged the creation of a sovereign, service-oriented Islamic government uniting all Syrians without discrimination or retribution.
- Amnesty and Refugee Return: It emphasized the adoption of a general amnesty and conditions for the safe return of millions of refugees.
- Foreign Policy: Advocated for positive relations with international actors to avoid rivalries and ensure national stability.
- Call to Foreign Actors
The MOFA urged foreign powers involved in Syria to support the transition through cooperation with HTS and among themselves. “Policies of positive engagement & cooperation… can enable Syria to embark on a path towards good governance, security, and stability,” it stated.
Context and Developments
The statement comes after Syrian rebels, led by HTS, captured Damascus on Sunday, forcing President Bashar al-Assad to flee, effectively ending his two-decade rule.
Rebel groups had rapidly gained control of key Syrian cities, including Aleppo, Homs, and Daraa, within weeks, culminating in the unopposed seizure of the Syrian capital.
According to Reuters, Hadi al-Bahra, head of Syria’s main opposition group abroad, announced that Damascus was now “without Bashar al-Assad.” The armed opposition declared, “The tyrant Bashar al-Assad has fled.”
The civil war in Syria, which had been relatively dormant in recent years, reignited dramatically, leading to the regime’s collapse.