Tensions between Uzbek 'Migrants' and the Syrian Government in Idlib

One of the most sensitive issues for the Syrian government as it seeks to further cement the country’s integration into the international order is the status of ‘muhajirin’ (‘migrants’) in the country: that is, foreigners who joined the side of the insurgency against the Assad regime during the war.

Far from being a monolith, these ‘muhajirin’ took on a variety of positions and functions both before and after the regime collapsed. Some ‘muhajirin’, for example, formed contingents that became integrated into Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Others aligned with the al-Qa‘ida-loyalist Hurras al-Din and came into conflict with HTS. Others still took an independent line. Further, not all ‘muhajirin’ took on or remained in military functions: some have focused on aid work, or opened up their own businesses.

Uzbeks are one group of ‘muhajirin’ who illustrate the diversity of stances and functions.