Formation of Syria’s National Security Council Under Interim President

Syria’s Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa announced the formation of a National Security Council aimed at addressing national security challenges. This council, which did not exist under Bashar al-Assad, will manage political and security policies as the country seeks to stabilize after years of civil war. The council’s creation comes amid rising tensions and ongoing violence.

On Wednesday, Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa of Syria announced the establishment of the National Security Council through a presidential decree. This newly formed council will oversee decisions pertinent to the nation’s security and the challenges it currently faces.

The National Security Council, led by President al-Sharaa, will coordinate and manage both security and political strategies for the country, which lacked such an institutional framework under the previous leadership of Bashar al-Assad. As the nation strives for stability following over 13 years of civil conflict, the council’s creation is a significant step toward disbanding armed groups and restoring national governance.

Challenges associated with this initiative include a series of recent executions primarily targeting members of the Alawite sect, aligned with former President Assad, following attacks on security forces. Reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicate that almost 1,400 civilians have lost their lives at the hands of security forces and affiliated groups.

Sharaa, who leads the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has committed to safeguarding Syria’s diverse religious and ethnic communities, particularly after the group’s successful efforts to unseat Assad in December. In the decree creating the National Security Council, it was noted that the body aims to bolster national security and address imminent security and political issues.

In terms of structure, the council will include the ministers of foreign affairs, defense, and the interior, in addition to the head of intelligence. President Sharaa will appoint two advisory members and a technical expert. Council meetings will occur periodically or at the president’s discretion, with decisions made in consultation with members.

The establishment of Syria’s National Security Council, led by Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, reflects the new authorities’ focus on national security and governance amidst ongoing challenges. The council’s formation seeks to disband armed groups and ensure the protection of diverse religious and ethnic minorities while addressing the aftermath of prolonged conflict. However, the situation remains precarious due to rising civil unrest and security force actions.

Original Source: www.france24.com