Al-Bashir pledges a stable future as rebels secure power in Syria
On Tuesday, Mohammed al-Bashir, Syria’s new caretaker prime minister, announced his leadership backed by former rebels who ousted Bashar al-Assad. Addressing the nation on state TV, Bashir pledged to lead until March 1. He confirmed efforts to transfer government functions from both the ousted regime and the rebel-led Salvation Government he once headed.
Following Assad’s overthrow, Damascus showed signs of recovery. Banks and shops reopened, traffic returned, and streets were cleaned. Rebel leaders ordered fighters to withdraw, replacing them with police under Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the main rebel group. HTS, once linked to al-Qaeda, now seeks to distance itself from its jihadist past.
The U.S. cautiously supports Syria’s transition. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the need for inclusive governance and the safe handling of chemical weapons. However, Washington remains wary of HTS, maintaining its designation as a terrorist group. U.S. officials also urged HTS to help locate missing journalist Austin Tice.
Meanwhile, humanitarian efforts continue. Prisoners at Sednaya, notorious for torture, were freed, but rescuers found hidden cells and remains of detainees. In northern Manbij, a U.S.-mediated ceasefire between Kurdish SDF forces and Turkish-backed rebels was reached to protect civilians.
Amid these developments, Israel launched airstrikes targeting Syrian army bases and weapon stockpiles, creating new challenges for the interim government. Israel claims its actions are temporary and aimed at securing southern Syria.
Rebuilding Syria remains daunting after 13 years of war. Cities lie in ruins, sanctions have devastated the economy, and millions of refugees remain displaced. Despite this, Damascus celebrates newfound hope. Refugees, like Anas Idrees, are returning, savoring simple joys like ice cream, symbolizing their renewed optimism for the future.
