In a significant political development, Ahmed al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of Syria since early December, has been officially appointed as the country’s transitional president. This appointment follows a meeting of various rebel factions that have been instrumental in the recent overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
Al-Sharaa’s leadership marks a pivotal shift in Syria’s governance. Since assuming de facto control, he has initiated efforts to consolidate rebel factions and establish new state institutions. Notably, on December 24, he announced the dissolution and merger of multiple rebel groups, including the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army, into the interim government’s Ministry of Defense. This move aimed to streamline military operations and reduce internal conflicts among opposition forces.
The international community has been closely monitoring these developments. On January 3, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot visited Damascus, marking the first high-level diplomatic engagement from European Union member states since Assad’s fall. Their meeting with al-Sharaa focused on discussing a new political beginning between Europe and Syria, signaling potential shifts in international relations and support.
Al-Sharaa has also addressed concerns regarding Syria’s foreign policy, particularly in relation to Israel. In an interview with Syria TV, he emphasized that with the end of Assad’s regime, Israel no longer has “any excuses” for attacking Syrian territory. He advocated for diplomatic solutions as the primary means to ensure security, distancing his administration from “ill-considered military adventures.” Furthermore, he affirmed that his government would uphold the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement, which concluded the Yom Kippur War, indicating a commitment to maintaining existing peace accords.
As Syria embarks on this transitional phase under al-Sharaa’s leadership, the nation faces the formidable task of rebuilding and unifying a country deeply scarred by years of civil war. The establishment of a representative governing authority and the drafting of a new constitution are among the critical steps anticipated in the coming months. The international community remains watchful, hopeful that this transition will lead to lasting peace and stability in the region.
