Following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, the Syrian Transitional Government (STG) has pledged sweeping reforms to establish a state governed by justice and the rule of law. Officials outlined their vision for the nation’s future, emphasizing inclusivity, accountability, and rebuilding efforts.
Obeida Arnaout, spokesman for the Political Affairs Department of the STG, announced Thursday that Syria’s constitution and parliament will be temporarily suspended during a three-month transitional period. A legal and human rights committee will be formed to review the constitution and implement necessary amendments. “Our priorities include protecting institutions, documents, and evidence while ensuring justice and the rule of law prevail,” Arnaout said in a statement to Agence France-Presse.
Prime Minister-designate Muhammad al-Bashir assured that the transitional government will guarantee the rights of all Syrians, regardless of ethnicity or religion. “Syria is a Sunni-majority nation, but it is also home to diverse ethnic and religious groups. Our government will protect the rights of all,” he told Italy’s Corriere della Sera. Al-Bashir also encouraged expatriates to return and contribute to rebuilding the country.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of the Command of Military Operation (CMO) and a prominent figure in the revolution, declared the dissolution of security forces linked to the former regime. He also pledged to close notorious prisons and work with international organizations to secure chemical weapon stockpiles.
“We will hold accountable those who tortured and oppressed the Syrian people. There will be no impunity for the perpetrators of these crimes,” al-Sharaa told Reuters. He emphasized the formation of a technocratic government to steer the transitional period until March 2025. Al-Sharaa congratulated Syrians on their victory and urged peaceful celebrations. “Let us rebuild this country with the same resolve we had during the revolution,” he said.
The STG has begun reopening Syrian airspace and preparing airports for civilian traffic. According to the Minister of Transportation, Aleppo International Airport is ready for operations, with announcements regarding Damascus and other airports expected soon. Efforts are also underway to restore border crossings and facilitate trade with neighboring countries.
The fall of Assad’s regime marks a seismic shift in Middle Eastern geopolitics, reducing the influence of Iran and Russia in the region. Assad fled to Russia after his ousting, ending over five decades of his family’s rule.
In response, US President Joe Biden’s administration is engaging with Syrian opposition groups and coordinating with allies, including Turkey, to initiate informal diplomacy. A Turkish delegation, comprising intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin arrived in Damascus to meet with al-Sharaa and al-Bashir. The STG also expressed gratitude to Sudan and Algeria for maintaining their diplomatic presence in Damascus.
The leaders of the STG are working to rebuild institutions and restore public trust, promising a transparent and inclusive governance model. Al-Bashir stressed the importance of fostering unity among Syrians to ensure a stable and prosperous future.
“This is not just a political transition; it is a national renewal,” Arnaout said. “We are determined to create a Syria that upholds justice, protects all its citizens, and thrives as a beacon of hope in the region.”
