Ahmad Shar’a, in both vision and political trajectory, appears to be a Sunni version  of  continuation of the legacy of Ayatollah Khomeini—albeit without the revolutionary slogans and with a modern appearance. Despite the shift in rhetoric, Shar’a’s record suggests a dangerous continuity. His past involvement in violent activities, combined with the recent repression and mass killings of Alawites, ongoing intimidation of the Druze community in Syria, and systematic threats against the Kurds, casts serious doubt on the possibility of a shared democratic future under his leadership.

Historical precedent reinforces these concerns. Khomeini, during the initial stages of the Islamic Republic, sought to project a policy of tolerance toward various groups and nations within Iran. However, once his regime consolidated power, it swiftly turned to violent repression, culminating in the issuance of a fatwa calling for jihad against the Kurdish people in Iranian Kurdistan.

Syria’s future—as well as its role in regional stability—depends fundamentally on the establishment of a democratic and decentralized political system. Only through a structure that allows the constituent nations and peoples of Syria the right to genuine self-determination can the country move away from authoritarianism and persistent internal conflict. For multi-national states like Syria, durable peace and democracy can only be achieved through meaningful decentralization—whether in the form of federalism, confederal arrangements, or autonomous cantonal systems—ensuring that the central government becomes a true representative of all its diverse components.

From a security perspective, particularly for Israel and other neighboring countries, the most sustainable strategy lies in forging alliances with democratic and inclusive forces within Syria—namely the Druze and the Kurds of Rojava. The Kurdish people, often referred to as the fourth major nation of the Middle East, possess a long-standing tradition of secularism, democratic governance, and peaceful coexistence. A strategic partnership with the Kurds would not only enhance Israel’s long-term security, but also contribute significantly to regional peace and stability.

The Middle East has endured centuries of conflict and destruction. Supporting democratic, decentralized alternatives in Syria offers a realistic and morally sound path toward a more stable and peaceful future—one that breaks the cycle of authoritarianism, sectarian violence, and regional warfare.

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