Syria's new rulers have initiated a national dialogue conference in Damascus, marking a significant opportunity to reconstruct the country following the ousting of former President Bashar Assad and years of civil war. The conference, attended by approximately 600 individuals from diverse backgrounds across Syria, is being hosted by the new authorities led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which played a key role in toppling Assad in December.
Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa emphasized the importance of seizing this historic moment to serve the nation's interests and honor the sacrifices made by its people. The new leadership has pledged to facilitate an inclusive political transition, a commitment closely monitored by Syrians and the international community, particularly regarding the lifting of sanctions imposed during Assad's regime.
Challenges facing Syria include economic recovery, rebuilding infrastructure, drafting a new constitution, and establishing justice mechanisms for addressing war crimes. While incidents of revenge have been limited, concerns persist among minority communities such as Kurds, Christians, Druze, and Alawites regarding their future under the new governance.
The conference aims to generate recommendations for interim governance, leading to the formulation of a new constitution and government structure. Efforts are also underway to unify former insurgent factions into a national army, although some groups, like the Syrian Democratic Forces, have resisted disarmament.
External threats loom as well, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserting that Israel will prevent Syria's new army and HTS from entering southern Damascus. The new Syrian leadership has vowed to safeguard national security and unity against any external interference.
Amidst these developments, protests have erupted in Sweida and Daraa against Israeli intervention, with demonstrators advocating for a united Syria post-Assad's regime. The government is also focused on rebuilding diplomatic relations and advocating for the lifting of sanctions to pave the way for Syria's recovery.
