Syria's New Government Formed by President Ahmed al-Sharaa

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, formed a new government with close allies in top positions but some minority representation. Global concern over HTS takeover from Assad regime. Cabinet includes women, Kurds, and Alawites. Promises to focus on industry, investment, and technology development.

Current Threat of Islamic State in Syria

The Islamic State remains a formidable threat in Syria, exploiting the security vacuum after the fall of Bashar Assad. The Syrian Democratic Forces have conducted operations against ISIS in coordination with the U.S. and regime forces. HTS has seized control in Aleppo and Damascus, leading to increased ISIS activity in remote areas. The SDF is facing challenges from Turkey-backed jihadists and has halted operations with the U.S. at times. The situation is complex and involves multiple factions vying for power in post-war Syria.

Syrian President Seeks Cooperation with Turkey to Rebuild War-Torn Country

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa seeks cooperation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to rebuild war-torn Syria. Al-Sharaa is the leader of the HTS terrorist organization that took over Syria after defeating the Syrian military and prompting Bashar Assad to flee. Turkey has a longstanding policy of supporting Syrian rebel groups and is interested in helping with humanitarian aid and rebuilding critical infrastructure in Syria.

Syrian President's Visit to Saudi Arabia and International Relations

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, made his first trip overseas to Saudi Arabia, receiving support and discussing economic partnerships. The new president promises an 'inclusive' government but has defended Islamist rule and hinted at imposing a sharia regime. Saudi Arabia, a critical ally, is advocating for lifting sanctions on Syria imposed due to its history of terrorism. The Trump administration has shown little interest in involvement in Syria.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa Assumes Presidency and Prioritizes Consolidating Power

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of the terrorist organization HTS, assumed presidency and aims to consolidate power in Damascus, dissolve armed forces, and hold free and fair elections in the future. The situation in Syria remains complex with various factions vying for control.

Political Situation in Syria

The jihadist terrorist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) announced their leader Ahmed al-Sharaa as the president of Syria after the dissolution of the official Syrian armed forces and the Arab Socialist Baath Party. This follows Assad and his family fleeing to Russia after over a decade of civil war. HTS is an offshoot of al-Qaeda and Sharaa was previously known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani. The UN estimates over 6 million Syrians have fled the civil war and 7 million are displaced within Syria. The new government led by Sharaa aims to be Islamist in nature.

Syria's Political Transition

Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa declared president for a transitional phase, tightening his hold on power after toppling Bashar al-Assad. Military commanders announced the suspension of the Syrian constitution and formation of a temporary legislative council. Sharaa aims for political transition and rebuilding state institutions.

Protests in Christian Neighborhoods of Damascus

Demonstrators in Christian neighborhoods of Damascus protest after a Christmas tree burning raises concerns about the treatment of religious minorities post-Assad. New leader Ahmed al-Sharaa pledges to protect minorities, but fears remain due to extremist roots of rebel groups. U.S. considering removing HTS from terrorist list based on commitments from al-Sharaa. U.S. airstrike targets Islamic State operatives in Syria. Al-Sharaa works to unite rebel factions under defense ministry. Violence erupts in Manbij, highlighting need for cohesive security force.

Protest of Christmas Tree Burning in Syria

Hundreds of Christians in Syria protested the burning of a Christmas tree by foreign vandals, expressing skepticism towards promises of protection by Islamist rebel leaders. The event sparked anxiety among the Christian community due to past attacks and threats. Despite reassurances from the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, concerns remain about the treatment of Christians under the new regime.

Syrian insurgent leader Ahmed al-Sharaa promises inclusive and respectful Syria

Syrian insurgent leader Ahmed al-Sharaa promises a new Syria inclusive of minority groups and respectful of neighbor's sovereignty. His group HTS aims to build diplomatic credibility by respecting minority rights, staying out of Lebanon, and backing away from confrontations with Israel.

Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria's New Leader

Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria's new leader, is trying to present a more moderate image to the West and is pushing for the lifting of sanctions against Syria. He has vowed to usher in an era of change driven by inclusivity and has promised to form a Syrian committee to write a new constitution. However, there are doubts about his sincerity and ability to follow through on his promises.

U.S. Officials Visit Damascus for Diplomatic Mission

Senior U.S. officials visit Damascus for first diplomatic mission since Assad's fall to discuss transition to inclusive Syrian government and search for missing American citizens. The delegation meets with rebel group HTS and other Syrian parties to gather information and support their vision for the country's future.

Fall of Bashar al-Assad's Regime in Syria

Rebel forces in Syria seized the capital from longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad, who fled the country to Russia. The rebel group now in power, Hay'at Tahrir al Sham (HTS), is designated a terrorist organization by the US, raising concerns of a new autocratic regime. The Syrian revolution is part of a broader pattern in the Middle East and North Africa where revolutions against autocrats often lead to chaos or oppressive rule.

Jihadi Rebels in Syria Suspend Constitution and Parliament

Jihadi rebels in Syria have suspended the national constitution and parliament for a three-month transition period, during which a new constitution will be created. The al-Qaeda splinter group HTS has established a 'Salvation Government' to administer the territory it occupies in northwestern Syria, with plans to preserve Syria's institutions and respect religious and cultural diversity.

Abu Mohammad al-Jolani and the Future of Syria

Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, leader of HTS rebel group in Syria, seeks to transition Syria into a state of governance post-Assad. HTS faces challenges due to its extremist past and terrorist designation, but signals willingness to work with international community on important issues like chemical weapons.

Syrian Rebels Capture Hama and Advance Towards Damascus

Syrian rebels capture pivotal cities, including Hama, as Turkey-backed forces advance. Turkish President Erdogan supports the military progress and aims to target Damascus. The conflict involves various terrorist groups and major geopolitical players, such as Iran and Russia.

Rebel Advance in Syria and Israeli Air Force Strikes on Syrian-Lebanese Border

Rebel fighters in Syria advance towards the strategically important city of Homs, threatening government forces and causing thousands to flee. The rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) is making significant gains, putting pressure on the Assad regime. Israeli Air Force strikes border crossings and roads on Syria's border with Lebanon to target weapon-smuggling routes used by Hezbollah.

Syrian Rebel Forces Capture Hama

Syrian rebel forces led by HTS have captured the strategically vital city of Hama, previously under Assad's control, marking a significant milestone in the Syrian Civil War. The rebels are now advancing towards Damascus, with concerns over the fate of minority populations in the region.

Jihadist Takeover of Aleppo and Persecution of Syrian Christians

Syrian Christians in Aleppo are facing trauma following jihadist takeover, with widespread crime and vandalism targeting the community. Basic necessities like food and medical care are scarce, and thousands have fled while those remaining live in fear. The jihadist group HTS is imposing restrictions on churches, and the situation is described as a significant threat to stability in Syria.