Syria’s Rebels Begin Government Transition After Assad’s Ouster

Following the sudden ouster of Bashar al-Assad, Syrian rebels begin forming a transitional government, signaling a significant shift in the region. With international parties watching closely, the rebel-led Salvation Government prepares for leadership changes amid ongoing challenges such as stability, governance credibility, and external influences. The situation promises a complex path toward recovery in war-torn Syria.

The swift ouster of President Bashar al-Assad has created unease among Syrians and global powers regarding the future of Syria as rebels initiate a government transition. Following a clandestine meeting on December 10, 2023, the United Nations Security Council expressed surprise over the rapid development after more than a decade of civil war stalemate. Russian UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia remarked on the unexpected speed of Assad’s exit, highlighting the need to monitor the evolving situation.

Following Assad’s departure to Moscow, there remains a celebratory atmosphere in Damascus. Prime Minister Mohammed Jalali has agreed to transfer power to the rebel-led Salvation Government, which operates within rebel-controlled northwest Syria. The transition discussions, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, are expected to unfold over several days.

The militia alliance, particularly Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is significantly influencing this generational shift in the Middle East. The Syrian conflict, which commenced in 2011, resulted in massive casualties and a deep refugee crisis, leaving cities in ruins and the economy severely compromised. However, plans for Syria’s future governance remain vague, with no established framework for a transition in such a fragmented region.

Oil prices increased in response to concerns over potential instability that could arise from the situation, despite Syria’s minor role as an oil producer. Deputy US Ambassador Robert Wood described the moment as significant for the Syrian populace, emphasizing the importance of a governing body that would uphold the rights of its citizens. U.S. efforts are underway to foster informal diplomacy with Syrian rebel factions, seeking regional collaboration with nations like Turkey.

As Syria enters a new chapter following Assad’s abrupt departure, the establishment of a stable government and the recovery of the nation remain uncertain. The emergence of the rebel-led Salvation Government marks a critical turning point, although challenges including fears of vengeance and the credibility of HTS as a governing body are notable. There is cautious optimism for a return to order, indicated by the reopening of banks and initiatives to restore essential services, despite regional tensions and foreign intervention concerns.

Original Source: www.euractiv.com