Damascus Museum Reopens After Closure Due to Conflict and Looting Fears

Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of the Islamist militia Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has been appointed as the transitional president of Syria, according to an announcement by the Syrian rebel coalition on January 30, 2025. This shift marks a significant development following the removal of long-time dictator Bashar al-Asad in late December 2024. Al-Sharaa's role includes forming a provisional legislative council until a new constitution is adopted. The announcement was part of a nine-point declaration made during a "victory conference" by various rebel factions, which also called for the dissolution of Asad's government institutions, including the military and intelligence services. Despite this progress, the situation in Syria remains precarious, with lingering sectarian tensions and the uncertainty of long-term governance. Experts express skepticism regarding al-Sharaa's promises of inclusivity, noting his appointments primarily favor loyalists from Idlib. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) also maintain control over northeastern regions, complicating the political landscape. As Syria grapples with the implications of al-Sharaa's leadership, the international community remains cautious, particularly regarding sanctions.

Ahmad al-Sharaa, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has been named Syria's interim president following the recent overthrow of President Bashar Assad. This appointment was announced during a meeting of former insurgent factions in Damascus. The new interim administration has also declared the cancellation of the existing constitution, which was adopted in 2012 during Assad's rule, and plans to draft a new one. Al-Sharaa, known previously as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, was involved in the military campaign that led to Assad's removal in December. He has worked to distance himself from his past association with al-Qaida and has positioned himself as a proponent of pluralism and the rights of women and religious minorities. Colonel Hassan Abdul Ghani, spokesperson for the new government’s military operations, indicated that al-Sharaa would be establishing a temporary legislative council to facilitate the formation of governance structures. He also specified that all armed factions in the country will be disbanded and integrated into state institutions. Despite this significant transition, details regarding the mechanisms of al-Sharaa's selection as president remain unclear, including the nature of the assembly that chose him. The situation in Syria is developing, with regional and international responses to al-Sharaa's appointment yet to emerge.

In light of the recent political developments following the overthrow of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, the United Nations has projected a potential mass return of Syrian refugees currently residing abroad. Reports indicate that initial signs of repatriation are emerging, with significant numbers of individuals returning from two specific countries. However, returns from other nations have been minimal thus far. The ongoing civil conflict in Syria has displaced approximately six million people, many of whom have sought asylum in neighboring countries and beyond. As the situation in Syria evolves, international agencies are closely monitoring the dynamics of refugee movements and the conditions that might facilitate safe returns. Experts note that the complexities surrounding the refugee crisis require careful consideration of security, human rights, and socio-economic factors to ensure a sustainable reintegration process for returnees.