Syria’s new leader announced on Sunday that all weapons in the country, including those held by Kurdish-led forces, will soon come under state control. This declaration came two weeks after Islamist factions seized control of Damascus, marking the end of decades of rule by Syria’s former leader.
The new leadership, backed by certain regional powers, stated that armed groups across Syria, including rebel factions and those in areas controlled by Kurdish-led forces, would begin disbanding and integrating into the Syrian army. The leader emphasized that there will be no room for unauthorized weapons in Syria. “Weapons will not remain outside state control,” he declared at a press conference, adding that this was vital to ensure peace and unity in the war-torn country.
Turkey played a critical role in this development, with its supported groups aiding the Islamist coalition that toppled the previous government. The new Syrian leader appeared with Turkey’s foreign minister, further underlining their alliance.
Unity Amid Sectarian and Regional Challenges
The new leadership has promised to protect all sects and minorities, ensuring that no group feels excluded or targeted. In a clear attempt to calm fears of sectarian violence, the leader affirmed that Syria is a country for everyone, where all communities can live together peacefully.
This message of unity was echoed in public events, such as a Christmas market in Damascus, where residents expressed hope for a brighter future. People of different religious backgrounds celebrated together, showing signs of relief and joy amidst years of hardship.
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Meanwhile, neighboring countries have also been drawn into the changing dynamics of Syria. Lebanon, which shares close historical and political ties with Syria, saw its prominent figures meeting the new Syrian leader. The leader assured Lebanon that Syria would refrain from interfering negatively in its affairs, a marked shift from the previous regime’s influence over its smaller neighbor. This pledge could potentially ease tensions between the two countries.
Regional and International Reactions
Turkey’s foreign minister, standing alongside Syria’s new leader, called for lifting international sanctions on Syria to help the country recover from its nearly 14-year-long civil war. The war has killed over half a million people and forced millions to flee their homes, many seeking refuge in Turkey and other neighboring countries. Turkey has also continued military campaigns against Kurdish-led forces in Syria, viewing them as a security threat.
The situation in Kurdish-held areas remains tense. Reports of clashes and casualties, including the deaths of civilians due to shelling, have further complicated the fragile atmosphere. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a key player in the region, are now under pressure to relinquish control of their weapons as part of the new government’s efforts to centralize power.
Global powers, including the United States and the European Union, have begun engaging with Syria’s new authorities. They have pressed for assurances that women, minorities, and all vulnerable groups will be protected. There are also growing demands for action against terrorism and extremism in the region. However, concerns remain about the group leading the new administration, which has been classified as a terrorist organization by multiple countries.
Shifting Alliances in the Middle East
The rise of Syria’s new government has also disrupted regional alliances. Countries like Saudi Arabia, which once supported opposition forces during Syria’s civil war, are now establishing contact with the new regime. Saudi officials are expected to visit Damascus soon, signaling a potential thaw in relations.
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Meanwhile, long-standing tensions persist between Syria’s Kurdish-led forces and Turkey. Ankara continues to associate the Kurdish forces with a militant group that it considers a major threat to its national security. Recent reports of violence in border regions highlight the ongoing friction.
Iran, a key player in Syria during the previous regime, is also watching the situation closely. While the new leadership appears to be shifting away from some of Iran’s policies, the regional dynamics remain fluid.
Syria’s 14-year conflict, which left cities destroyed and millions displaced, has taken a dramatic turn with the rise of a new leadership. While the promises of unity and state control over weapons offer a glimmer of hope, the road ahead remains fraught with challenges as the country tries to rebuild and heal.
