Syrian Arab Republic News

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.

A recent analysis highlights that water scarcity poses a significant threat to societies in the Middle East, with over 60% of the population living in areas facing critical water shortages. According to the World Resource Institute, fourteen out of the thirty-three countries projected to face the most severe water stress by 2040 are situated in this region. The implications of water scarcity extend beyond mere shortage; researchers argue it fuels social and political unrest. The decline in water availability, exacerbated by rural-to-urban migration, has intensified tensions in countries like Syria, where limited water access links closely to broader issues of governance and economic stability. Contrary to popular belief, the notion that water scarcity will lead to inter-state wars is increasingly being challenged. Scholars suggest that evidence supporting the concept of "water wars" is lacking. Historical data shows that cooperation over water resources has been more prevalent than conflict, especially in shared river basins such as the Jordan River and the Euphrates-Tigris. While the potential for local conflicts over water access remains, experts advocate for a focus on the domestic impacts of water scarcity. Strengthening local water management and fostering cooperative agreements between countries are deemed essential strategies to alleviate the socio-economic vulnerabilities affected by water shortage. As the region prepares for future challenges, addressing the local dimensions of water issues may prove more critical than the inter-state competition narrative.

In a troubling development, fighters associated with Syria's new leadership have executed 35 individuals in the span of just three days, primarily targeting former officers from the regime of ex-President Bashar al-Assad. These summary executions have raised alarms regarding the direction of the newly established governance, which came into power following the ousting of Assad last month. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the executions were carried out alongside a series of arrests in the western city of Homs, where authorities accused a "criminal group" of exploiting the chaos to perpetrate abuses while masquerading as security personnel. Reports indicate that many of the executed had registered with the new authorities, seeking to align themselves with the emerging regime. Local armed groups, part of the new Sunni Islamist coalition, have been implicated in retaliatory actions against the Alawite minority, to which Assad belongs. The observatory highlighted a disturbing pattern of mass arrests, extreme violence, and attacks on religious symbols, indicating a significant escalation in hostility and brutality. Human rights organizations, including the Civil Peace Group, condemned the actions taken during a recent security sweep, emphasizing the unjustified nature of the violence which reportedly affected numerous innocent civilians. As the new government attempts to assure minority communities of their rights, fears persist among Alawites and other groups regarding potential retribution due to the hardships faced during Assad's long reign. As Syria grapples with these upheavals, the international community watches closely, concerned about the implications for peace and stability in the region.

In a troubling escalation of violence, Syrian fighters linked to the new leadership have reportedly executed 35 individuals within a span of 72 hours, predominantly targeting former officers of the toppled Assad regime. The deaths were confirmed by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the situation on the ground. The new authorities, installed following the ousting of longtime President Bashar al-Assad last month, claimed to have carried out multiple arrests in the western region of Homs, alleging that a “criminal group” was exploiting the recent turmoil to commit abuses under the guise of security operations. These executions and arrests have raised concerns among various communities, particularly among Assad's Alawite minority, who fear reprisals for the actions taken during Assad's prolonged rule. Reports indicate that members of religious minorities have faced humiliation during these security operations. Local armed groups affiliated with the new Sunni Islamist coalition have reportedly used the chaotic environment to settle old scores, leading to arbitrary arrests and brutal violence. Civil rights groups have condemned these actions, calling them unjustified and highlighting the presence of civilian casualties during the security sweep. While the new regime has attempted to reassure minority communities regarding their rights, the recent spate of violence underscores the ongoing instability and the urgent need for accountability in Syria.

As Syrians begin returning to their homes following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, many are confronted with a perilous reality: the lingering threat of landmines. One heart-wrenching story is that of Ayghad, who lost his father when their car hit a landmine while returning to their farmland in Idlib province. The area, once vibrant with olive trees, is now a designated minefield, preventing families like Ayghad’s from safely resuming their lives. Since the regime's fall in December, the Halo Trust reports that at least 144 people, including 27 children, have died from landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXOs). Many victims were farmers attempting to reclaim their land. The White Helmets, a civil defense group, have identified and cordoned off around 117 minefields, but their efforts are hampered by a lack of coordination among various organizations working to clear these dangerous remnants of war. Hassan Talfah, who leads the White Helmets’ UXO clearance team, emphasizes the heightened risk around former battle lines, where most casualties occur. Tens of thousands of devices remain buried, largely unaccounted for, putting civilians, especially children, at grave risk. International organizations like the Halo Trust advocate for an extensive survey to estimate the contamination levels and the necessary destruction of devices to ensure safe living environments for returning families. Talfah’s personal mission to clear these dangers is fueled by his own loss—he lost a leg while working to clear a cluster bomb. As humanitarian efforts continue, experts stress the importance of coordinated action and increased funding to protect lives in post-conflict Syria.

Many Syrians returning to their homeland following the regime's recent fall are confronted with a deadly threat: landmines. Ayghad, a former resident of Idlib province, experienced this firsthand when his father was killed by a landmine on their family farmland, which had been a source of pride and income. After years of displacement due to the civil war, Ayghad and his family were hopeful to reclaim their land once opposition forces regained control of their village in November 2024. However, the dream quickly turned tragic when Ayghad's father's car hit a landmine during a visit to their olive grove, resulting in immediate death. The United Nations reports that at least 144 individuals, including 27 children, have lost their lives to landmines and unexploded ordnance since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government. Many victims are farmers and landowners attempting to return to their properties after years of conflict. Hassan Talfah, who leads mine-clearing efforts with the White Helmets, describes the difficult task of identifying and removing landmines, which were laid extensively during the conflict. He stated that while unexploded ordnance is visible and somewhat easier to clear, the hidden landmines present a grave danger to returning families, especially children. Efforts to clear contaminated areas face significant challenges, with limited coordination among the various organizations working to mitigate these risks. Despite clearing over 800 unexploded ordnance items in the past month, the White Helmets have only cordoned off approximately 117 minefields, while estimates suggest that around a million dangerous devices remain in Syria. International experts are calling for a comprehensive survey and increased funding to bolster the capacity for mine clearance. Without coordinated efforts to address the dangers posed by landmines, the lives of returning Syrians, especially children, remain at significant risk.

The historic Qadam train station in Damascus, once a vital link during the Ottoman Empire, now stands as a poignant reminder of Syria's turbulent past after years of civil war. After over a decade of conflict, the station, which has suffered extensive damage, is seen by its remaining staff as a potential symbol of revival for the nation. Mazen Malla, a train operator with deep roots in the station, described the station as integral to his life, having devoted more than 12 hours a day to the job. His nostalgia reflects a broader desire among local workers to see the railway restored to its former glory. Initially built to connect Europe with the Arabian Peninsula, the station fell into disrepair following the outbreak of civil unrest against President Bashar Assad in 2011, which transformed it into a military base. The remnants of bullet-scarred walls and abandoned train cars are a testament to the violence that engulfed the region. Despite its historical importance, the station was repurposed for military purposes, and its infrastructure suffered significant damage. The station briefly reopened for service in 2018, representing a triumph for Assad’s regime, but ongoing challenges have hindered its recovery. With an estimated 90% of Syria's population living in poverty, efforts to restore not just the railway but also the nation's broader economic prospects face significant hurdles. In recent developments, neighboring Turkey has expressed interest in revitalizing the railway line to enhance trade and investment, which could pave the way for employment opportunities in the devastated sector. Malla dreams of a future where his son can follow in his family's footsteps and help rejuvenate the essential link to Europe and the Middle East that Qadam once represented. As Syria continues to navigate its post-war reality, the Qadam train station stands as a beacon of hope for the country's revival efforts, symbolizing the potential for recovery amidst the ruins.

Mazen Kneneh, identified as a former loyalist to the ousted Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, was publicly executed by fighters linked to Syria's new Islamist-led administration on Friday morning in Dummar, a suburb of Damascus. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Kneneh was shot in the head in a public display of retribution against regime supporters. Footage circulating on social media depicted the aftermath, showing Kneneh's body tied to a tree and subjects nearby mocking and attacking the corpse. Reports suggest that Kneneh was accused of being an informant for the Assad regime and of writing security reports that resulted in the persecution of young men during the previous administration. As Syria grapples with the transition in power, the new authorities are targeting remnants of the Assad regime. Anas Khattab, the newly appointed intelligence chief, has stated the intention to reform the security apparatus and pursue former officials responsible for torture and war crimes. This public execution serves as a stark indication of the violence and instability that continues to permeate the country following the fall of Assad last month. The transitional government, backed by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has committed to resolving the issues of former regime loyalists while attempting to assure minority populations of their rights during this precarious time.

In a significant shift in the Middle Eastern power dynamics, Iran has reportedly withdrawn most of its military forces from eastern Syria in the wake of the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. This includes elite units of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, as confirmed by a report from The Wall Street Journal. Many Iranian fighters and their proxies have fled across the border into Iraq, while others have returned to Iran or Lebanon. The retreat has left behind substantial military equipment, much of which has been destroyed by Israeli airstrikes or captured by the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. U.S. officials indicate that this withdrawal constitutes a major setback for Tehran's influence and ambitions in Syria, marking a dramatic change in the region's ongoing conflict.

The national museum in Damascus has reopened for the first time since being closed on December 7, just before Islamist-led forces took control of the capital and ousted President Bashar al-Assad. Authorities shut the museum's doors amid fears of looting as rebel forces advanced. Museum director Mohamed Nair Awad confirmed that the decision to secure the museum was made due to escalating instability in the area. On December 8, following Assad's departure, many government soldiers abandoned their posts, resulting in widespread looting of public institutions. However, Awad reported that Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham provided protection for the museum, allowing it to remain unharmed. Visitors returned to the museum this week, where they could view artifacts dating back more than 10,000 years. Archaeology student Shahanda al-Baroudi expressed relief and joy upon discovering that the historical collection, which includes Greco-Roman sculptures and various Islamic art pieces, was intact. Outside the museum, some visitors held signs urging new authorities to maintain the preservation of Syria’s cultural heritage. The museum had previously closed for six years amidst Syria's civil war, which began in 2011, and only reopened in 2018 after Assad regained control over significant parts of the country.

In the wake of Bashar Assad's ousting, former detainees are bravely sharing their harrowing experiences of torture and brutality endured in Syria's infamous detention centers. Survivors describe a systematic regime that utilized more than 100 facilities to inflict torture, sexual violence, and mass executions on thousands of individuals, including their own soldiers. Abdullah Zahra, a survivor who spent two months in Branch 215, recounted the terrifying moments when he was electrocuted and beaten while his father was forced to watch. These accounts come as many Syrians, silenced by fear for over a decade, now seek closure and answers about their loved ones who disappeared during the regime's reign of terror. Activists estimate at least 150,000 individuals went missing since protests erupted in 2011, many tragically succumbing to torture or poor conditions in detention. The Syrian Civil Defense has begun investigation efforts into documented mass graves, while a UN body aims to gather evidence to prosecute those responsible for these atrocities. As the world turns its attention to this dark chapter of Syria's history, survivors emphasize the urgent need for accountability and justice. Zahra expressed hope for change, stating, “With Assad gone, I want to tell my story, and I want the truth to come out.”

The Syrian caretaker government announced on Sunday a significant increase in public sector salaries by 400%, set to take effect next month. Finance Minister Mohammed Abazeed stated that this decision aims to enhance the efficiency and accountability of government ministries following a recent administrative restructuring. The salary hike, which is estimated to cost approximately 1.65 trillion Syrian pounds (around $127 million), will be financed through existing state resources, regional aid, new investments, and efforts to recover frozen Syrian assets abroad. Abazeed described this increase as "the first step towards an emergency solution to the economic reality in the country," where many public employees previously earned around $25 a month, placing them below the poverty line. As part of this restructuring, the government has evaluated up to 1.3 million registered public sector employees to ensure that funds are allocated to those with relevant expertise and skills necessary for the country’s reconstruction efforts. The government is also working on tax reforms and the potential exemption of taxpayers from penalties, aiming for a fairer tax system by the end of the year. Despite facing liquidity issues, the central bank reportedly has sufficient funds to support the upcoming salary increases, with expectations to retrieve up to $400 million in frozen assets, which could further aid in financing state expenses.

In a significant diplomatic visit this Friday, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot met with Syrian officials in Damascus to discuss the future of Syria following the Asad regime. The European diplomats expressed their desire to assist Syria's transition while emphasizing the importance of protecting women's rights and minority groups. Baerbock highlighted, "We want to help, but we are not willing to provide funds to new Islamist structures." Their visit, marked by a tour of the notorious Saidnaya prison, aimed to send a clear message of hope for a peaceful dialogue among Syria's diverse ethnic and religious communities. The meeting with Ahmed al Shara, the new de facto leader of Syria, represented a renewed European interest in the country. Saudi Arabia has also shown increasing influence, with the new Syrian chancellor, Asad al Shaibani, having recently visited Riyadh to strengthen ties. This shift into a more collaborative international stance follows more than a decade of violent conflict in Syria. However, concerns persist among Syrians regarding potential Islamist governance and changes to education content aimed at religious indoctrination. As international actors engage with the new Syrian authorities, the demand for inclusive governance continues, with previous ties to extremist groups raising red flags for many Western nations.

Saydnaya Prison, located north of Damascus, has long been synonymous with extreme human rights abuses under the Assad regime. Built in the 1980s, initially intended for political prisoners, it has since evolved into a symbol of state-sponsored atrocities including extrajudicial executions, torture, and forced disappearances. With the recent fall of the Assad government, Syrian rebels announced the liberation of over 4,000 inmates from Saydnaya, some of whom had been imprisoned since the 1980s. Disturbing images of frail inmates circulated globally, shedding light on the horrific conditions within the prison. Reports indicate that since the civil war began in 2011, the prison witnessed significant torture and death, with NGO claims suggesting that more than 30,000 prisoners died due to inhumane treatment. The United Nations and Amnesty International have documented numerous human rights violations at Saydnaya, including systematic executions and the establishment of a crematorium for the disposal of bodies. Testimonies recount the use of "salt chambers" as makeshift morgues, highlighting the brutal shortcomings in the treatment of inmates. Following the prison's liberation, families of the missing rushed to Saydnaya in hopes of finding their loved ones. However, the once-active facility is now empty, with many prisoners officially classified as missing. The recent developments have sparked interest in the fates of foreign prisoners, including a Jordanian man who spent 38 years incarcerated in Saydnaya and a Lebanese man who was released after 33 years. The horrific legacy of Saydnaya now serves as a reminder of the brutalities faced by countless individuals during the Assad regime.

The recent power shift in Syria has left the Christian community in Damascus grappling with fear and uncertainty. Islamist militants from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) have overthrown the regime of long-time dictator Bashar al-Assad, raising concerns among the city’s Christian minority about their future. With Christmas approaching, the atmosphere in Damascus is complex. While some residents celebrate the fall of Assad, Christians express skepticism about the Islamist regime's intentions. Father Siraj Dib, a Maronite priest, remains cautiously optimistic, citing a meeting between church leaders and the new authorities, where assurances of religious freedom were made. However, historical context raises doubts, as HTS has ties to extremist factions known for past violence against religious minorities. In a worrying display of intolerance, a video recently surfaced showing masked men burning a Christmas tree near Hama, prompting hundreds of Christians to protest for their rights across Syria. HTS has claimed responsibility for repairing the tree and stated that the perpetrators, allegedly affiliated with the Islamist group Ansar al-Tawhid, have been arrested. Many Christians share a deep-seated fear for their safety. Roger, a 33-year-old Catholic from Mezzeh, expresses his belief that the Islamists' façade of tolerance is misleading and warns that they might restrict freedoms once international scrutiny wanes. He recalls a personal encounter with HTS fighters attempting to storm his home. While some, like Olga Muti, a young Orthodox Christian, are hopeful that life in Syria can improve post-Assad, others remain anxious. She acknowledges a mixed society in Damascus but shares the apprehension felt by many Christians about their survival in a changing political landscape. As the new regime asserts its authority, the future for Christians in Damascus remains uncertain, with many hoping for genuine tolerance but fearing a return to past persecution.

Unverified reports have emerged claiming that Bashar al-Assad, the ousted president of Syria, was the target of a poisoning attempt in Moscow, where he has been living under the protection of Russian President Vladimir Putin since December 8, 2024. The allegations surfaced on social media, particularly from a channel managed by a former Russian spy, General SVR. According to these reports, Assad fell ill on December 31 and experienced severe coughing and choking. Following this incident, he reportedly received medical attention in his apartment. Subsequent tests indicated the presence of poison in his system. While his condition has stabilized, there has been no official confirmation from either Syrian or Russian authorities regarding the poisoning claims. Assad fled to Russia after a swift offensive by rebel forces, which resulted in the capture of Damascus. The situation remains fluid as further investigations and reports unfold.

In the wake of the recent downfall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, families of more than 112,000 individuals reported missing or arbitrarily detained during the brutal civil war are calling for justice and answers regarding their loved ones' fates. Activist Wafa Mustafa, whose father has been missing since 2013, joined dozens of others in a demonstration in Damascus to raise awareness of their plight. Mustafa, a member of the coalition Free Syria’s Disappeared, expressed both joy and sorrow at the regime's collapse, noting the painful reality that many families are still left without closure. “We want to know the whole truth. What happened to our relatives? Who killed them? Where are they buried?” she stated, holding a photograph of her father. The families’ demands include the preservation of documentation and evidence related to the missing persons, as newly discovered mass graves continue to surface. The absence of a professional response to this task adds to their frustration. Aya Majzoub, a regional director at Amnesty International, emphasized the importance of these efforts for accountability and reconciliation in Syria. Meanwhile, the new government led by Ahmed al-Shara faces the complex challenge of addressing wartime abuses not only by the previous regime but also by rebel militias, including their own. Past actors, such as former regime officers, are being offered opportunities for amnesty under a proposed reconciliation process, raising concerns among victims' families about potential impunity. The situation has sparked comparisons to other nations grappling with their own histories of human rights violations, with advocates calling for international support to establish accountability mechanisms similar to truth commissions in places like Argentina. As the hopes for a peaceful transition continue, advocates remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice for the missing.