As rebels seize control, Syria enters a new chapter. Damascus residents share their aspirations and anxieties as they go about their everyday lives.
- During leadership changes, there is very little sectarian slaughter and reprisal.
- Corruption, poverty, and a broken economy are difficulties that Syria must contend with.
After President Bashar Assad’s unexpected collapse, Maj. Hamza al-Ahmed and his team arrived at the Damascus International Airport, signaling the change in Syria’s leadership.
The long-suppressed airport personnel finally spoke up about their threats and the denial of advancements. Recognizing the difficulties that were ahead, Al-Ahmed promised their support.
Syrians are embracing new freedoms while struggling with previous traumas, and this exchange reflects their emotional release and cautious hope.
Retaliation and sectarian bloodshed have been remarkably rare throughout the changeover. There are only a handful of rebel fighters visible in Damascus, so daily life seems normal.
Nevertheless, the nation encounters substantial obstacles: a dysfunctional economy, enormous poverty, and pervasive corruption.
Despite these challenges, the unexpected lack of terror under Assad’s rule has motivated many Syrians to take charge of their own destiny.
Speaking at the airport, al-Ahmed stressed the need for unity, saying, “Syria is for all, and we all have to cooperate.”
Osama Najm, an engineer, acknowledged the rebels’ encouraging beginning but swore to remain vigilant against any misconduct.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’s rebels want to build a pluralist society to reassure different groups. Still, other locals, like Hani Zia, are suspicious because they are concerned about the radical Islamic ideology that some of the warriors have.
Damascus is seeing a tentative return to normal. A few eateries are openly offering alcohol as a test of the new restrictions.
As a sign of their dedication to maintaining order, rebel police respond quickly to reports of harassment.
Even if he disagrees with the rebels, theater instructor Salem Hajjo respects their understanding of government and hopes to have a say in the future of Syria.
After Assad’s ouster, the initial mayhem, which included celebratory gunfire and burned buildings, was soon subdued, and residents started going outside again.
The airport is now being prepared to reopen as maintenance workers examine aircraft and clear the area of any debris.
With his meager $15 a month, Murad, a cleaner, dreams of happier times. Officials are pleading for a return to work and sending staff to control traffic and organize municipal activities using volunteers.
Even though the transitional administration has the enormous burden of fixing the country’s long-standing problems, its members are cautiously optimistic and prepared to tackle what lies ahead.