Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), announced plans to disband rebel factions and integrate them into Syria's defense ministry, emphasizing the need for a social contract among religions for social justice. He called for lifting international sanctions to facilitate the return of displaced refugees and restoring relations with the UK. Despite HTS's past as an al-Qaida affiliate, it seeks to establish a political transition and protect minority rights, while tensions with Kurdish forces persist. The UN envoy supports lifting sanctions for rebuilding efforts, amid ongoing Israeli strikes in Syria.