"Established in 1953 in Jerusalem, the Liberation party operated in secret for decades. It is now taking advantage of opposition control of northern and eastern Syria to open offices and begin proselytizing in mosques and private homes, giving religious lessons and distributing literature.
It espouses a strict interpretation of Islam that covers all aspects of life. Under its rule, universities would be segregated by gender and eating in public during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan would be banned. One member, a doctor who leads religious classes in an Aleppo suburb, said that all religious obligations in Islam would be mandatory for Muslims.
The group has even begun showing a documentary highlighting its role in the Syrian uprising.
Starting with religious and political meetings in small villages and town, its members have made inroads in Aleppo and other cities.
The party has had little success getting traction in the Middle East. Even in countries where it is now able to work openly and legally, it remains a minor political player, which is why Syria presents a golden opportunity.
"The revolution's desire for an Islamic caliphate has become obvious, the black flags are at every protest," Breemo said."
It espouses a strict interpretation of Islam that covers all aspects of life. Under its rule, universities would be segregated by gender and eating in public during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan would be banned. One member, a doctor who leads religious classes in an Aleppo suburb, said that all religious obligations in Islam would be mandatory for Muslims.
The group has even begun showing a documentary highlighting its role in the Syrian uprising.
Starting with religious and political meetings in small villages and town, its members have made inroads in Aleppo and other cities.
The party has had little success getting traction in the Middle East. Even in countries where it is now able to work openly and legally, it remains a minor political player, which is why Syria presents a golden opportunity.
"The revolution's desire for an Islamic caliphate has become obvious, the black flags are at every protest," Breemo said."
