Syria Establishes New Transitional Government Following Assad’s Ouster

Syria has sworn in a new transitional government, replacing the interim leadership following the removal of Bashar Assad. The 23-member Cabinet operates without a prime minister and seeks to restore stability and inclusivity. It includes diverse representatives and focuses on ending the conflict, although it lacks support from the Kurdish-led SDF. The US has issued warnings regarding potential security threats during the Eid al-Fitr holiday.

On March 30, 2025, Syria’s newly established transitional government was sworn in, marking a significant change following the ousting of the Assad family from power four months prior. As reported by the Associate Press, this government aims to restore stability in the war-torn nation. The 23-member Cabinet is the inaugural administration under Syria’s five-year transitional period, succeeding the interim government formed after former President Bashar Assad was removed from office in December.

This new government diverges from earlier ones by not appointing a prime minister; rather, it operates under a secretary-general as per the temporary constitution signed by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The formation of the new Cabinet announced shortly before Eid al-Fitr features several fresh faces, while the roles of foreign and defence ministers have been retained from the previous interim administration. Notably, Anas Khattab, previously head of the intelligence department, has been appointed as the new Interior Minister.

In his address after the government’s formation, President al-Sharaa emphasized the intent behind the new administration, stating, “The formation of a new government today is a declaration of our joint will to build a new state.” Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra highlighted his commitment to creating a professional army that serves the population. However, the government lacks representation from the US-backed Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the autonomous administration in northeast Syria.

Despite this, a recent agreement was signed by al-Sharaa and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi, aiming for a nationwide ceasefire and the integration of SDF forces into the Syrian army. Among the newly appointed ministers are Hind Kabawat, a Christian activist named Minister of Social Affairs and Labour, and Raed Saleh, previously the head of the Syrian Civil Defence, who has been appointed Minister for Emergency Disasters. Kurdish politician Mohammed Terko becomes the Minister of Education, while Mohammed al-Bashir is assigned to manage the Energy Ministry, with an emphasis on restoring the electricity and oil sectors.

The government’s central objective is to end the ongoing conflict and foster peace throughout Syria. Recent violent confrontations in the coastal region, predominantly involving the Alawite sect, led to over 1,000 fatalities. The leadership reflects a commitment to inclusivity, incorporating figures from various religious and ethnic backgrounds. Such diversity aims to garner support from Western nations and potentially lift longstanding economic sanctions that have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, with approximately 90% of Syrians living below the poverty line and reduced food aid afflicting millions.

Hours before the government announcement, the US State Department cautioned American citizens regarding potential threats amid the Eid al-Fitr holiday, emphasizing increased risks of attacks on embassies, international organizations, and public institutions in Damascus. The advisory noted that possible attack methods could include armed assaults or explosive devices.

The establishment of Syria’s new transitional government marks a crucial development aimed at restoring stability following the ouster of Bashar Assad. By assembling a diverse Cabinet with representatives from various ethnic and religious backgrounds, the administration seeks to demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and gain international support, particularly for the lifting of economic sanctions. However, security concerns persist amid ongoing unrest in the region.

Original Source: indianexpress.com