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The recent capture of Damascus by Syrian opposition forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), marks a dramatic turning point in the country's protracted 13-year civil war. This sweeping military offensive has resulted in the ouster of long-time President Bashar al-Assad and has set in motion the formation of a new government under the banner of the Syrian Salvation Government (SSG). The transition, while seemingly swift, is fraught with challenges and uncertainties, raising concerns about security, justice, and the future stability of the nation. The outgoing Prime Minister, Mohammed al-Jalali, has agreed to a transfer of power to the SSG, headed by Mohammed al-Bashir, a close associate of HTS. This handover represents a significant shift in the balance of power, signaling the end of Assad's rule and the beginning of an uncertain new era for Syria.
The speed of the transition raises immediate questions about the legitimacy and stability of the new government. While the UN special envoy, Geir Pedersen, has called for a smooth transition that preserves Syrian institutions and allows the people to determine their future, the reality on the ground is far more complex. The new government, under the leadership of Ahmed al-Sharaa (Abu Mohammed al-Julani), faces the monumental task of consolidating control over newly acquired territories, rebuilding shattered infrastructure, and addressing the immense humanitarian crisis caused by the war. The resettlement of millions of Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons presents a logistical and political challenge of unprecedented scale. The success of the new government hinges on its ability to navigate these complex issues effectively and to garner the support, or at least acceptance, of the Syrian people.
One of the most pressing concerns is the potential for retribution against those associated with the Assad regime. While HTS has pledged amnesty for conscripted soldiers and protection for religious minorities, it has also vowed to seek “just retribution” for senior military and security officials implicated in war crimes. This promise, while understandable given the atrocities committed during the conflict, risks igniting further conflict and instability. The statement by Ahmed al-Sharaa offering rewards for information on those responsible for abuses underscores the potential for a cycle of violence. This approach has been criticized by human rights organizations such as Amnesty International, which emphasizes the importance of justice rather than retribution. The international community, particularly the UN, faces the difficult task of navigating this delicate situation, ensuring accountability for past atrocities while simultaneously promoting reconciliation and preventing further violence.
The security situation remains a major challenge. The recent onslaught of Israeli attacks targeting military sites in Syria adds another layer of complexity to the already precarious situation. This external pressure, combined with the potential for internal dissent and resistance to the new government, casts a long shadow over the prospects for lasting peace and stability. The fragmented nature of the opposition, as noted by Al Jazeera’s Resul Serdar, also raises concerns about potential infighting and political maneuvering. Moreover, the legacy of the Assad regime, including the widespread human rights abuses, cannot be ignored. The new government must demonstrate its commitment to upholding human rights and establishing a truly inclusive and representative political system to build trust among the Syrian people and the international community.
The transition in Syria represents a critical juncture. The new government faces a formidable array of challenges, including securing the country, addressing the humanitarian crisis, rebuilding infrastructure, ensuring accountability for past atrocities, and promoting reconciliation. The international community must play a crucial role in supporting this transition, promoting dialogue, facilitating humanitarian aid, and encouraging a path towards lasting peace and stability. However, the success of this transition ultimately rests on the ability of the new government to build trust, address the concerns of the Syrian people, and establish a just and equitable society. The international community's response will be crucial in shaping the future of Syria and ensuring that the suffering of the past 13 years does not repeat itself.
Source: After taking Damascus, Syria’s opposition begins government formation