Abu Amasha
Abu Amasha is the commander of Syrian Army Unit 62, currently embroiled in a high-level command dispute with Ahmad al-Sharaa (Jolani) following the collapse of the Assad regime.
Abu Amasha is a prominent military figure within the restructured Syrian military landscape, specifically serving as the commander of Unit 62. He is widely known by the moniker 'the chicken thief' (Abu Amasha). His role has become a focal point of internal friction within the emerging Syrian power structure led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani.
In August 2026, reports emerged that al-Sharaa placed Abu Amasha under house arrest. This drastic measure followed Abu Amasha's refusal to comply with orders to transfer command of his unit to Major General Jamal al-Salih. The confrontation underscores the ongoing challenges of consolidating various military factions and units under a unified command in the post-Assad era. As part of the enforcement, al-Sharaa reportedly confiscated Abu Amasha's communication devices to isolate him from his supporters and subordinates.
The situation carries significant regional implications, particularly for Turkey. Given Abu Amasha's historical ties and the strategic importance of Unit 62, Turkish intelligence (MIT) is expected to play a mediating or decisive role in resolving the standoff. For Israel, the stability of the Syrian military command and the identity of those controlling key units near its borders remain critical security interests. The internal power struggles between revolutionary leadership and established unit commanders like Abu Amasha indicate a volatile transition period for Syrian national security.