Syria’s new leadership formally declared victory over the Assad regime during a historic Victory Conference held at the People’s Palace in Damascus on Wednesday, January 29. The event, attended by top military and political leaders, marked the beginning of a transitional phase aimed at rebuilding the war-torn country and redefining its future.
In a landmark decision, the Command of Military Operations (CMO), which led the final push against Assad’s forces, announced the appointment of Ahmad al-Sharaa as president of the Syrian Arab Republic (SAR). The conference also saw the dissolution of the former Syrian army, the security services, and all revolutionary factions, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), with plans to integrate them into newly formed state institutions.
“The will of the Syrian people has triumphed,” Military Commander Salem Al-Antari declared. “We must all work to build Syria with the same determination we used to liberate it.”
Al-Sharaa: ‘Victory is the Beginning of a New Struggle’
Ahmad al-Sharaa, the newly appointed SAR President, delivered a victory speech in which he outlined the country’s immediate priorities, emphasizing the need to fill the power vacuum, preserve civil peace, build state institutions, create a sustainable economic structure, and restore Syria’s regional and international standing.
Speaking on the significance of the revolution’s success, Sharaa reflected on Damascus’ plight in recent years, describing it as “a devoted mother, wounded and humiliated, calling on her children to save their nation.” He praised the perseverance of the Syrian people and stressed that their victory was not just a military triumph but one achieved with mercy, justice, and benevolence.
Sharaa made it clear that the responsibility of victory is immense, stating that Syria now requires an effort equal to that of its liberation to rebuild and develop the country. Many military leaders, former faction heads, echoed their support for his leadership.
Key Decisions from the Victory Conference
During the conference, CMO Spokesman Colonel Hassan Abdulghani announced several major resolutions that will shape Syria’s transitional period. Among them was the suspension of the 2012 Constitution and the formation of a constitutional committee tasked with drafting a new governance framework. Additionally, the Syrian army and security forces linked to the former regime were formally dissolved, with plans in place to establish a new national military.
Further restructuring saw the dissolution of all revolutionary factions, with their members set to be integrated into state institutions. The ruling Baath Party and its affiliated organizations were also disbanded, with their assets reclaimed by the state. The People’s Assembly, Syria’s former legislative body, was dissolved, and December 8, the date of the Assad regime’s fall, was declared a national holiday to commemorate Syria’s liberation.
Military commanders emphasized their commitment to supporting the transition. Military Commander Issam Bouidani affirmed that efforts to liberate the rest of Syria must continue, while Ahmad Al-Hais stated that the revolution would only be complete once a free and independent Syria was fully established.
Unified Military Command & National Security Reforms
The conference marked a turning point for Syria’s military landscape, with Defense Minister Major General Marhaf Abu Qasra confirming that all military bodies had agreed to merge under the Ministry of Defense.
Several military leaders emphasized that unity would be the foundation for Syria’s rebuilding efforts. Military Commander Ahmad Issa Al-Sheikh called for solidarity and compassion as the country enters this new phase, while Military Commander Amer Al-Sheikh noted that, just as the revolutionary sit-ins had been instrumental in Syria’s liberation, they would also be key to its reconstruction.
On the Path to a National Conference
Conference attendees stressed that building a new Syria requires both immediate action and long-term planning, and as such, a caretaker government is necessary to oversee the country’s affairs, implement key domestic and international policies, and ensure stability.
Al-Sharaa’s appointment provides Syria with a recognized representative on the international stage, allowing the country to conduct diplomacy, engage in regional and global discussions, and manage state affairs effectively. Conference leaders noted that this is not a permanent position but rather an interim role to guide Syria through this sensitive period until a national conference is held and the country’s new governance structure is formally established.
Despite the immediate need for governance, the formation of an inclusive National Conference remains a priority. The conference will be responsible for selecting representatives to draft the new constitution, which will define how state institutions function and how officials, including future presidents, are chosen. The process will be inclusive and transparent, ensuring that the future government reflects the will of the people rather than the dictates of any single group.
Leading Syria Into a ‘New Future’
As the foundations for a new government take shape, those who fought for this moment recognize the weight of their responsibility in shaping Syria’s path forward. “This victory was not born of the moment,” said Military Commander Saif Abu Bakr. “It is the result of unwavering determination and great sacrifices made by the Syrian people. Now, we carry the responsibility of leading Syria into a new future.”
Following the announcement of Sharaa’s presidency, thousands of Syrians took to the streets throughout the country celebrating the revolution’s success. As Syria moves into its transitional phase, the challenges ahead remain daunting.
