The demise of Syrian President Bashar Assad and the subsequent call for unity bring thousands to Damascus’ Umayyad Square.
- The Syrian revolution has Ahmad al-Sharaa’s congratulations.
- Blinken is talking with regional powers about the future of Syria.
Following the first Friday services following the collapse of former President Bashar Assad, thousands of Syrians flocked to Umayyad Square in Damascus to rejoice.
In a video message, Ahmad al-Sharaa—previously known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani—congratulated the Syrian people on the overthrow of Assad and urged them to rejoice peacefully while focusing on the restoration of their nation.
After taking control of the city, Al-Sharaa’s forces, together with allied militants from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have been attempting to set up security measures and initiate a political transition.
Particularly meaningful were the Friday prayers since, in 2011, during the anti-government rebellion-turned-civil war, a large number of demonstrators had gathered at mosques.
Supporters from all around Syria gathered in Damascus’ Umayyad Square to scream, “Unified Syria to build Syria,” a rallying cry that resonated with many participants.
Some spoke out against the repressive rule of the previous administration and voiced support for a Syrian society where all citizens could live in peace.
While the festivities were going on, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with regional powers in Ankara to discuss the US position on the events in Syria.
He stressed the need for an inclusive and non-sectarian transitional administration that safeguards women’s and minorities’ rights and does not endanger Syria’s neighbors.
Israeli bombings on Syrian targets to divert weaponry from extremists’ hands have left insurgent groups’ stances on the matter unclear.
Blinken stressed the importance of continuing efforts to control the Islamic State group. The Turkish foreign minister highlighted the priority of establishing stability, preventing terrorism, and ensuring that IS and the PKK do not gain ground.
The U.S. and Turkey have different stances on the allied Syrian Democratic Forces, a Kurdish-led group crucial in fighting IS but considered a terrorist group by Turkey.
Blinken emphasized the opportunity for Syrians to move from under Assad’s rule to a better future, one they decide for themselves.