Syria is undergoing a dramatic transformation following the flight of President Bashar al-Assad, who sought asylum in Russia after armed rebels forced his exit. The country now faces a period of uncertainty as it enters a transitional phase of governance. In a recent statement, Syrian Prime Minister Mohammed Ghazi Jalali reassured the nation and international observers that the government is working to maintain stability while coordinating with rebel factions.
Despite the political upheaval, Jalali claimed that most cabinet ministers were still operating from their offices in the capital, Damascus, and that the situation had improved in the last 24 hours. He emphasized that the transitional period would be swift and smooth, stating, “We are working to ensure that the transition is as quick as possible.” The prime minister also revealed that the government was engaging with insurgents, even expressing readiness to meet with prominent rebel leader Ahmad al-Sharaa (also known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani).
Rebels Gain Ground
While the government’s claim of stability contrasts with the reality on the ground, reports indicate that many government officials have fled their offices, fearing reprisal from the rebels. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group leading the insurgency, has made significant gains, and celebrations erupted in the streets as Syrians marked Assad’s departure. Damascus, once a hub of government control, has seen a shift, with citizens celebrating the fall of the regime in the public square.
Security remains fragile, with minimal military presence in the streets. Videos circulating on social media show rebel fighters reassuring citizens in neighborhoods like Mezzeh. One fighter emphasized that there would be no discrimination based on religion, reassuring Syrians that their rights would be respected. “We have nothing against you, whether Alawite, Christian, Shiite, or Druze,” said the rebel fighter. “Everyone must behave well and no one should try to attack us.”
A New Government in the Making
The collapse of Assad’s regime has left a power vacuum, with new political dynamics emerging. Syrian judges, like Judge Khitam Haddada from Damascus, are ready to resume their duties, focusing on delivering justice in what they hope will be a “new Syria.” Haddada emphasized that the legal system would operate with “new methods” to ensure fairness for all citizens, irrespective of their political or religious backgrounds.
However, the Syrian public sector is grappling with the fallout. The U.N. reported that many government employees have abandoned their posts, leading to a paralysis in essential services. The absence of aviation employees has halted the delivery of critical medical aid, further exacerbating the country’s instability.
The United Nations’ Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, Adam Abdelmoula, acknowledged the depth of the crisis, noting, “This is a country that has had one government for 53 years, and now, those who were previously demonized by the media are in charge.”
Economic and Social Challenges Ahead
Damascus remains in a state of flux, with most shops and government offices closed as people attempt to return to their “new normal.” Long lines formed outside bakeries, and while civilian traffic resumed, public transport was still suspended. The uncertainty surrounding basic services has left many Syrians uncertain about what lies ahead.
While rebels have promised to respect the rights of citizens, including ensuring freedom of dress for women, the country faces significant challenges as it navigates this new political landscape. Social media videos have shown rebels reiterating their commitment to a peaceful and representative government, with a focus on religious tolerance and inclusivity.
As the situation evolves, Syria’s future remains uncertain. The international community will be watching closely to see how the transition unfolds and whether the rebel forces can establish a stable, inclusive government after decades of Assad’s rule.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
