HTS Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham – العصائب الحمراء (Red Headbands) Military Wing Patch – 3.5”

This embroidered patch represents Al-Asa’ib al-Hamra’ (العصائب الحمراء), literally translated as “The Red Headbands,” a named militant formation associated with the military wing of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (هيئة تحرير الشام) during the Syrian conflict. The designation is directly tied to the group’s use of red headbands as a visual identifier worn by fighters, a common practice among armed groups in the region for unit distinction and cohesion.

The top arch reads “Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham,” clearly identifying organizational affiliation, while the bottom arch reads “The Military Wing.” The central shield displays the name Al-Asa’ib al-Hamra’ in red Arabic script, reinforcing the connection between the insignia and the red headband identity. The mosque dome, shield outline, and wreath-style elements are consistent with modern Syrian militant insignia emphasizing religious symbolism and armed resistance.

This patch is intended for collectors, historians, and researchers documenting modern Middle Eastern conflict insignia and unit identifiers.

Specifications

Size: 3.5 inches (circular)

Construction: High-quality embroidery

Border: Satin border

Backing Options: Hook and loop, iron on, or sew on (no backing)

Design: Arabic text with shield, mosque dome, and wreath elements

Era: Syrian Civil War period

Historical Context

Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) formed in 2017 as a consolidation of several Syrian jihadist factions and established control over significant territory in northwest Syria. Within its military structure, HTS employed named formations and symbolic identifiers to distinguish fighting elements.

Al-Asa’ib al-Hamra’ (“The Red Headbands”) refers to one such identity, characterized by the use of red headbands and associated insignia rather than a standalone organization. Patches like this served as unit markers, morale symbols, and visual identifiers during the conflict and are now studied as part of the material culture of the war.

Disclaimer

This item is a non-authentic reproduction intended for historical and educational purposes, as well as for display in private collections. It is not meant to promote any political stance or ideology.