Terrorism QuickBrief: The Army of Islam (AOI): Unraveling the History, Tactics, and Impact of a Syrian Militant Group

The Army of Islam (AOI), also known as Jaysh al-Islam, is a prominent Islamist militant group that has played a significant role in the Syrian civil war. With its roots in the early days of the conflict, the group has emerged as a formidable armed faction with a complex history, operational tactics, and implications for the region’s security and stability. This article delves into the origins, activities, and impact of the Army of Islam, shedding light on its evolution and role in the ongoing Syrian conflict.

Origins and Early Days:

The Army of Islam was formed in 2011 by Zahran Alloush, a prominent Syrian Islamist leader. The group’s inception coincided with the outbreak of the Syrian civil war, and it quickly gained prominence as one of the key rebel factions opposing the Bashar al-Assad regime. Alloush sought to establish an Islamic state governed by Sharia law in Syria and challenged the Assad government’s authority.

Operational Tactics and Activities:

The Army of Islam adopted a militant approach, engaging in armed conflict with both government forces and rival rebel groups. The group operated primarily in the Damascus suburbs, particularly in Eastern Ghouta, a region that witnessed significant battles and sieges during the war. AOI’s tactics included the use of guerrilla warfare, suicide bombings, and rocket attacks on Damascus, which resulted in civilian casualties and heightened insecurity in the capital.

Connections and Alliances:

Throughout its existence, the Army of Islam maintained complex alliances with other armed groups in Syria. It was part of the broader Free Syrian Army (FSA) coalition, aligning with other Islamist factions and sometimes cooperating with more extremist groups like Jabhat al-Nusra (now known as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham). However, the group’s involvement with other factions also led to conflicts and infighting within the opposition.

Human Rights Concerns:

The Army of Islam faced allegations of committing human rights abuses during its existence. Human rights organizations accused the group of engaging in the forced conscription of civilians, using human shields, and subjecting prisoners of war to mistreatment and summary executions. These actions raised concerns about the group’s respect for international humanitarian law and human rights principles.

Challenges and Decline:

Despite its influence and territorial control in Eastern Ghouta, the Army of Islam faced significant challenges from government offensives and internal divisions. In 2018, after a brutal siege and relentless bombardment by the Syrian regime, the group was forced to evacuate its fighters and their families from Eastern Ghouta, relocating to the rebel-held province of Idlib.

Current Status and Future Prospects:

As of the present, the Army of Islam’s prominence has waned, especially after its relocation to Idlib. The group’s influence has diminished amid the dominance of other rebel factions and jihadist groups in the province. Additionally, the loss of Zahran Alloush in a Russian airstrike in 2015 dealt a severe blow to the group’s leadership and cohesion.

Regional and International Implications:

The Army of Islam’s participation in the Syrian civil war has had significant regional and international implications. The prolonged conflict has destabilized the region, leading to a massive refugee crisis and drawing in various foreign actors. The presence of extremist factions like AOI and their connections to global jihadist networks raised concerns about regional security and the potential for the spillover of violence.

Conclusion:

The Army of Islam’s role in the Syrian civil war exemplifies the complexity and multi-faceted nature of the conflict. The group’s history, operational tactics, and connections with other armed factions have shaped the dynamics of the war and its impact on civilians and regional security. As the conflict continues, it is crucial for the international community to address the root causes of the war and seek a political resolution that can bring lasting peace and stability to Syria. Only through diplomatic efforts, humanitarian assistance, and a commitment to upholding human rights can the Syrian people find hope for a better future.