In the wake of significant political upheaval following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s new transitional Prime Minister, Mohammed al-Bashir, has called for citizens to “enjoy stability and calm.” Al-Bashir, previously the leader of the rebel administration in the northwestern region, now leads a government tasked with navigating the country towards a more stable future until March 2025. This shift in governance comes under the aegis of the Islamist group Hayat Tahir al-Sham (HTS) and its allies, marking a pivotal moment in Syria’s complex political landscape.
Al-Bashir’s remarks were made during an interview with Al Jazeera, where he emphasized the need for collaborative governance as he convened a meeting in the capital, Damascus. The gathering included not only members of the newly formed government but also ministers from Assad’s former regime. This blending of governmental factions is indicative of the transitional period Syria finds itself in, as leaders seek to transfer power and institutional responsibilities to address pressing needs in a country still reeling from years of conflict.
As the international community watches closely, there are calls for the newly established government to transform its promises into tangible actions. The UN envoy for Syria implored the rebels to turn their “good messages” into practical governance that reflects the will of the people. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated that recognition and support from Washington hinges on the emergence of a credible government that respects the rights of minority groups—a critical demand amidst the backdrop of unrest.
The civil war that erupted in Syria in 2011, in response to the violent crackdown on peaceful protests by Assad’s regime, has led to the loss of over half a million lives, exacerbating the refugee crisis with millions displaced internally and externally. Al-Bashir’s government thus faces the monumental task of restoring stability in a nation fractured by violence and deeply entrenched inequalities.
Before ascending to this prominent role, Mohammed al-Bashir was relatively unknown outside of HTS-controlled areas, predominantly in the Idlib and Aleppo provinces. His prior experience as an electrical engineer and involvement in local governance established him as a leader capable of coordinating essential services during a crisis. Following his appointment as the prime minister of the Salvation Government (SG), which HTS had set up to administer its territory, al-Bashir implemented a structure that simulated state governance, complete with ministries and judicial authorities, albeit under Islamic law.
The SG has managed to maintain a degree of functionality in response to the crumbling state structures, restoring public services, electricity, and medical support amid the chaos following HTS’s recent military actions. HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani’s meeting with former Assad officials marked an unprecedented moment of collaboration aimed at transitioning governance while ensuring that experiences from all factions are leveraged for the common good of the populace.
Despite the advancements in governance, the new leadership has faced skepticism due to the terrorist designation of HTS by various nations, complicating efforts for international recognition. Al-Bashir’s administration will need to showcase credible adherence to human rights and inclusive practices to regain confidence from both the Syrian people and the global community.
As the capital, Damascus, gradually returns to a semblance of normalcy, with increased pedestrian and vehicular activity observed in critical areas, citizens express hope for a brighter future founded on principles of justice and equality. Clerics and community leaders emphasize the need for a nation-state characterized by respect for laws and equal opportunity, reassured by calls for unity amid the country’s tumultuous history.
The transitional period outlined by al-Bashir represents a critical juncture in Syria, where unity among varying factions, including the incorporation of diverse communities, stands as a prerequisite for genuine stability and peace in this war-torn country. While the challenges remain significant, the new government’s commitment to reshape its narrative into action will be pivotal in defining Syria’s path forward.
