Syria is marking the first anniversary of the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad, a turning point that ended more than five decades of rule by the Assad family and opened an uncertain chapter for a nation devastated by fourteen years of war.
Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, whose Islamist-led coalition swept into Damascus on 8 December last year after a rapid offensive, urged citizens to rally behind the reconstruction and stabilization of the country.
Following morning prayers at the historic Umayyad Mosque, Sharaa paid tribute to the fighters who led the final push into the capital.
“The current phase requires the unity of all citizens to build a strong Syria, reinforce stability, protect sovereignty, and secure a future worthy of the sacrifices of our people,” he said, appearing once again in military uniform.
Celebrations and Political Complexities
Public commemorations have been underway for days across the country, culminating Monday with events in Damascus, including a military parade and a planned address by Sharaa.
Since taking power, the interim president has worked to distance himself from his jihadist past, regaining some degree of international legitimacy and securing partial relief from sanctions. However, analysts warn that his government faces steep challenges in establishing security, restoring state institutions, and repairing internal divisions.
Sectarian Tensions and External Pressures
Despite attempts at national reconciliation, sectarian tensions—particularly in Alawite and Druze regions—remain a major threat to the transition process. In addition, ongoing Israeli military strikes and regional instability continue to test the fragile political landscape.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the magnitude of the moment.
“What lies ahead is not only a political transition but an opportunity to rebuild shattered communities and heal deep divisions,” he said, calling for sustained international engagement.
“This is a chance to create a Syria where every citizen—regardless of ethnicity, faith, gender or political affiliation—can live safely, equally and with dignity.”
Resistance and Restrictions
Not all Syrians are embracing the anniversary celebrations.
On Saturday, a prominent Alawite religious figure called on the community to boycott official events, denouncing what he described as new “repressive” policies by the transitional authorities.
Meanwhile, the autonomous Kurdish administration in northeastern Syria announced a two-day ban on public gatherings, citing security concerns. Although a March agreement requires the Kurdish authorities to integrate their institutions into the central government by year’s end, progress has stalled.
Kurdish leader Mazloum Abdi reiterated support for the deal on Sunday, calling it a foundation for a “democratic, decentralized Syria rooted in freedom, justice and equality.”
As Syria reflects on a historic shift in power, the country faces a delicate balancing act: consolidating a fragile peace, preventing renewed fragmentation, and navigating a regional environment still rife with conflict.
