Syrians Called to Celebrate Peacefully After Assad's Downfall as Global Leaders Discuss Next Steps
Ahmad al-Sharaa, leader of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has urged Syrians to celebrate the recent fall of President Bashar al-Assad with peace and unity during a mass prayer event in Damascus. As the leader of the rebel group that took control of the capital, al-Sharaa encouraged citizens to gather in public squares to express their joy without resorting to gunfire, emphasizing a commitment to rebuilding the nation after years of war.
"After this, we will work to rebuild the country and achieve victory with God's help," he stated, as thousands anticipated taking to the streets following the prayers.
In a related development, leaders from the Group of Seven (G7) nations are convening virtually to discuss a political transition in Syria, expressing their readiness to support governance that is credible, inclusive, and nonsectarian. A recent statement indicated that the G7 is keen on ensuring that the new Syrian government upholds the rule of law, respects universal human rights—including women's rights—and provides protection for all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
HTS, while attempting to project a softer image and build relationships with Western nations, has its roots traced back to al-Qaeda in Syria. This intent on moderation was expressed by Obaida Arnaout, a spokesperson for Syria's interim government, who reiterated commitments to enforcing the rule of law and respecting the country's diverse religious and cultural heritage.
On the international front, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara. Discussions focused on the ongoing efforts to combat the Islamic State (ISIS) and the political transition in Syria. During a joint statement, Blinken highlighted the necessity of establishing an inclusive and nonsectarian interim government that guarantees the protection of women and minority rights.
"There is broad agreement on what we would like to see going forward," Blinken remarked, indicating collaboration between the U.S. and Turkey in preventing ISIS's resurgence. He noted their collective historical efforts to dismantle the group's territorial claims.
As addressing the regional implications of Assad's fall emerges as a priority, discussions also included the ongoing situation in Gaza, with Blinken indicating encouraging signs for a possible ceasefire.
After the G7 meeting, Blinken plans further discussions with Arab foreign ministers, European Union officials, the Arab League, and the United Nations, focusing on Syria and broader Middle East stability, amidst fears of a power vacuum and the potential resurgence of extremist groups in the region.
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