Syria’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Ahmed al-Bashir, has pledged to safeguard the rights of all religious groups in the wake of President Bashar al-Assad’s ouster. The Islamist-led coalition, spearheaded by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), brought an abrupt end to five decades of Assad family rule after a swift offensive that left Syrians across the country and abroad celebrating the end of an oppressive era.
Assurances to Religious Minorities and Calls for Justice
Bashir emphasized inclusivity in his inaugural address, stating that the transitional government seeks to protect the multi-ethnic and multi-religious fabric of Syria. “Precisely because we are Islamic, we will guarantee the rights of all people and all sects in Syria,” Bashir said, addressing concerns from religious minorities.
HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, now going by his real name Ahmed al-Sharaa, vowed accountability for the atrocities committed under Assad’s regime. “We will not pardon those involved in torturing detainees,” he said, urging other countries to extradite any fugitives linked to the regime’s crimes. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights estimates that over 500,000 people have been detained since the war began, with approximately 100,000 dying under torture or in inhumane detention conditions.
A Nation in Transition
As Syria grapples with rebuilding, uncertainty remains over the country’s future. Bashir, tasked with leading until March 1, called on millions of Syrians who fled during the conflict to return home, declaring, “Syria is now a free country that has earned its pride and dignity.”
Damascus International Airport, closed since the rebels seized the capital, is set to reopen within days. However, daily life remains fraught with challenges. In Aleppo, a shopkeeper noted a newfound sense of safety, while others expressed concerns over skyrocketing prices and access to basic services.
In Assad’s hometown of Qardaha, rebel fighters reportedly set fire to the tomb of his father, symbolizing the rejection of his family’s legacy.
Global Reactions and Concerns
The international community has responded cautiously to the leadership change. UN Secretary-General António Guterres pledged support for a smooth transition, while UN envoy Geir Pedersen warned against creating new divisions that could spark further conflict.
Western governments, including Germany and France, have called on foreign powers like Israel and Turkey to refrain from military actions that could undermine Syria’s fragile stability. Meanwhile, Qatar, a supporter of Assad’s opposition, announced plans to reopen its embassy in Damascus.
Russia, which had backed Assad, has expressed hope for Syria’s stabilization but criticized Israel for recent airstrikes on Syrian territory.
HTS’s Controversial Role
HTS, rooted in Syria’s branch of Al-Qaeda and designated a terrorist organization by many Western nations, has sought to present a more moderate stance. Jolani has even invited international monitoring of any chemical weapons found in Syria—a striking departure from extremist rhetoric.
While skepticism persists, some observers see potential for cautious engagement. Robert Ford, the last U.S. ambassador to Syria, noted Jolani’s recent statements as a significant shift. “I’m not saying trust Jolani… But I sure as hell want to test him on some of these things,” Ford remarked.
A Complex Path Forward
As Syria emerges from nearly 14 years of war that claimed over 500,000 lives and displaced half its population, the nation faces monumental challenges in charting a new course. The promises of justice, inclusivity, and rebuilding will be critical in determining whether the new leadership can deliver on its commitments or plunge the country into further turmoil.
