Albanian fighters join Syrian rebel group in regime change

Dec 13, 2024 - Albanian fighters from across the Balkans have played a key role in recent battles in Syria, contributing to the fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Operating within Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a coalition of rebel groups, these fighters are part of a unit known as Xhemati Alban.

The group, composed mainly of Albanians from Kosovo, North Macedonia, and the wider diaspora, has gained attention through social media, where they document their activities. Although Albanians are a small part of HTS, their involvement is significant, particularly with groups specialising in grenade launchers and sniping.

HTS, which evolved from former Al-Qaeda affiliates, has been fighting to overthrow Assad since the Syrian civil war began. Despite its claims of promoting tolerance and inclusivity, HTS remains classified as a terrorist group by both the US and the European Union.

The leader of Xhemati Alban is Abdul Jashari, known as Abu Qatade al-Albani, a 48-year-old from Skopje, North Macedonia. Jashari has been a key figure in HTS operations and was sanctioned by the US in 2016 for his involvement with Al-Nusra, a precursor to HTS.

HTS’s growth has attracted foreign fighters, including those from the Balkans. While the number of such fighters has decreased in recent years, some continue to play an active role in the Syrian conflict. Kosovo, for instance, has repatriated hundreds of its citizens, although around 100 Kosovars are believed to remain in Syria and Iraq.

The situation in Syria raises ongoing concerns about the spread of extremism and the challenges of reintegrating those who fought in foreign conflicts.