‘If I go home, I will be arrested’: The dilemma of Indonesian HTS fighters in Syria

A Glimpse into the Life of Ilyas: An Indonesian in Syria

Ilyas, a man from Sulawesi, Indonesia, found himself in the midst of Syria’s turmoil when he joined the Jabhat al-Nusra rebel group in 2013. His journey began in Tartus, where he was assigned as the deputy commander of a small infantry group. Despite the fall of the regime, remnants of Assad’s forces still linger, particularly near Lebanon. Ilyas reflects on the infrastructure of Tartus, once complete, now stripped bare by soldiers seeking valuable resources like transmitters and copper. His voice, strained by a poor connection, carries the weight of a life transformed by conflict.

The Path of a Fighter: Battles andClose Calls

Ilyas’s role in Syria wasn’t merely observational; he was an active participant in the rebellion. As part of Jabhat al-Nusra, now known as HTS, he engaged in numerous battles, often facing death in close combat. His resilience through near-death experiences highlights the perilous reality of his choices. The transition to HTS marked a new chapter in his fight, yet his dedication remained unwavering, driven by beliefs that led him to=sys.

Settling in Idlib: A Life Rebuilt

Amidst the chaos, Ilyas found solace in Idlib, where he settled with a Syrian wife and three children. Their integration into the community was surprisingly harmonious, welcomed as family rather than outsiders. This personal narrative offers a humane side to the conflict, illustrating how even in war-torn regions, life persists with moments of peace and connection.

The Indonesian Presence in Syria: Roles and Responsibilities

Ilyas isn’t alone; other Indonesians like Ali Husni are also entwined in Syria’s conflict. Ali, an aid worker, distributes bread in Tartus, yet is labeled a foreign fighter. Indonesians in Syria undertake various roles—some as commanders, others as mortar launchers or snipers. Their presence, though less than 100 in Idlib, spreads across the country, contributing to the complex dynamics of the war.

Challenges and Risks: The Cost of Involvement

The involvement of Indonesians in Syria comes with significant risks. Beyond the battlefield dangers, there’s the stigma of being foreign fighters, complicating their futures. The label casts a long shadow, affecting their lives beyond the conflict’s end. Ilyas and others face uncertain futures, their fates intertwined with the ever-changing political landscape of Syria.

Conclusion: The Broader Implications

The stories of Ilyas and others offer a microcosm of Syria’s conflict, revealing the intricate roles of foreign fighters. Their narratives, marked by both violence and humanity, underscore the war’s complexities. As Syria navigates its future, the tales of these individuals remind us of the profound personal and global impacts of such conflicts. Their journeys, while unique, contribute to the tapestry of a nation’s struggle and transformation.