Syria Celebrates the End of Assad’s Era Amidst Hopes for a New Future
On December 8, 2024, Syrians celebrated the end of the Assad regime after 50 years, reflecting on the 2011 uprising. Gatherings occurred nationally, especially in Damascus, Homs, and Hama, marking a new era of hope and potential reconstruction as citizens seek justice and unity amid ongoing challenges.
On December 8, 2024, Syria marked the demise of the Assad regime, which had been in power for five decades. In honor of the uprising that sparked the Syrian revolution in 2011, citizens gathered across the country, particularly in Umayyad Square, Damascus. Celebrations were noted in Homs, Hama, and eastern regions, although participation was less prominent in Turkish-occupied northern Syria, reflecting a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
State-run Syrian media emphasized the historic gathering, stating, “For the first time since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s criminal and oppressive regime in Syria, Syrian citizens gathered… to celebrate the 14th anniversary of the blessed revolution.” The report characterized the celebration as a confirmation of a new Syria liberated from oppression. Many participants, including Syrians from abroad, attended in remembrance of those lost during the revolution.
Among the attendees was Mohammad Shafter from Germany, who expressed mixed feelings of joy and sorrow, stating his wish that his deceased friends and family could share in the triumph. Rawan Ahmad from Deir ez-Zor proclaimed, “The revolution ended with the fall of the tyrant…,” urging for a new focus on rebuilding, fighting corruption, and establishing equality among the Syrian populace.
Wael Abu Fadil from Daraa insisted on the importance of holding accountable those responsible for the regime’s atrocities, asserting that true accomplishment requires transitional justice. His sentiments were echoed by others, as Homs hosted celebrations showcasing light shows, fireworks, and vocal criticisms of past oppression.
Abdul Wahid Abdullah al-Mohammad, who traveled from Hasakah to celebrate, highlighted the unity of the Syrian populace against any remnants of the former regime’s attempts to sow discord. In Hama, thousands gathered joyfully, proclaiming, “Peace Prevails, Hope Renewed,” while commemorative vehicle processions defined the events in Homs.
Although many once thought the regime would endure indefinitely, this belief shifted with the regime’s collapse following a significant offensive led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham. Syrians now face a blended atmosphere of hope and challenges, including the need for sanctions relief and the fight against extremist elements. The newly formed government has taken steps to address drug trafficking in southern regions.
In the context of regional security, Israel has asserted its readiness to prevent any threats from Syria, reinforcing its military presence in the Golan Heights. This has drawn criticism from the United Nations, with Under-Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix urging compliance with the 1974 ceasefire agreement between Syria and Israel to foster regional peace and stability.
The celebration of December 8, 2024, marks a pivotal moment for Syria as citizens rejoice in the fall of the Assad regime after 50 years. People across the nation united in remembrance of the sacrifices made during the revolution, emphasizing a desire for a future centered on justice, reconstruction, and unity. As challenges lie ahead, the hope for a prosperous Syria persists amid regional tensions and necessary governmental reforms.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
