Syrians Celebrate One Month Since the Fall of al-Assad's Regime

Thursday 09 January 2025 - 11:04

A month has passed since Bashar al-Assad’s overthrow, marking the end of over five decades of his family’s rule in Syria and nearly 14 years of civil war. On December 8, al-Assad fled to Russia and has not been seen since.

On Wednesday evening, thousands of Syrians gathered in Damascus for a concert to commemorate the uprising. The event, which took place at a basketball center in the city’s heart, celebrated one month of relative peace and stability. The mood was one of optimism and relief, as many never expected this day to come.

A large poster of al-Assad stood outside the stadium, though only his hair and forehead remained visible, symbolizing the collapse of his regime. The concert's proceeds were directed towards prominent NGOs, including the White Helmets, the civil defense group that helped rescue civilians during bombings by Syrian and Russian forces.

Many Syrians are now hopeful for the future. "I hope things will improve. Under al-Assad, we lived in fear," said Nada Daye, a local resident. Mamoun Nahlawi, a bookstore owner, stressed the importance of lifting the sanctions that have long hampered Syria's economy. "The sanctions must go if we are to see any progress," he stated.

Syria remains one of the most sanctioned nations globally, but the new administration, under Ahmed al-Sharaa, aims to change this. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) met on Wednesday to discuss this issue, pushing for the removal of sanctions. Geir Pedersen, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, emphasized that a smooth political transition would help Syria receive the urgent economic aid it needs.

Furthermore, Tom Fletcher, the UN humanitarian affairs official, warned that sanctions should not hinder humanitarian assistance. A national conference to discuss Syria's transition to democracy is scheduled for the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the US has begun talks with Qatar and the UAE to ease financial restrictions on Damascus, contingent on the new government severing ties with Russia and Iran and ensuring political stability.