HTS establishes new military formation in Syria’s Idlib
IDLIB, Syria (North Press) – On Tuesday, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS, formerly al-Nusra Front) announced the formation of a new military brigade within its ranks in northwest Syria.
North Press obtained a copy of the decision passed by HTS military wing in which it said, “Based on the requirements of the public interest, Hamza Bin Abdulmotalib Brigade is established with Khattab al-Shami as its general commander.”
The HTS’ announcement to form a new group came days after military escalation witnessed by different areas in de-escalation zone in northwest Syria between parties to the conflict.
Military sources from the opposition told North Press, “Changes made by the HTS and the recent announced expansion are preparations for the coming phase in Idlib, heading towards stability in case the current ceasefire, which witnessed many violations in the few past days, continues.”
The sources added, “The alleged preparation for the new phase requires different military arrangements within prominent commanders and to replace radical personnel with more flexible ones that are closer to the central command.”
HTS, through the announcement to establish this new military formation, wants to deliver a message to the Syrian opposition and international parties that “it is still strong and continues to expand with its ability to counter any threat against its presence in Idlib,” according to the sources.