Thousands Celebrate in Damascus After Assad’s Overthrow – Historic celebrations in Damascus mark the first Friday prayers since Bashar al-Assad’s fall. Syrians express hopes for freedom and coexistence as global leaders discuss Syria’s future.
Thousands Celebrate in Damascus Following Assad’s Overthrow
Thousands of Syrians gathered in Damascus’ iconic Umayyad Square to celebrate the first Friday prayers since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The event marked a historic moment for the nation, as Friday prayers had long been a rallying point for anti-government protests during Assad’s rule.
The atmosphere was jubilant, with attendees waving the new Syrian flag, chanting slogans of freedom, and expressing hopes for a brighter future. People traveled from across Syria, including from former rebel strongholds like Idlib, to join the celebration.
Key Highlights from the Celebrations
- Location: Umayyad Square, a historic and symbolic venue in Damascus.
- Significance: The first public Friday prayers after Assad’s fall, symbolizing a turning point in Syria’s history.
- Participants: Thousands of Syrians, including families, activists, and former fighters, united in hope and relief.
- Atmosphere: Joyful and defiant, with chants and slogans previously banned under Assad’s regime openly voiced.
- Hopes for the Future: Many expressed aspirations for a corruption-free government, religious coexistence, and true freedom.
One participant from Idlib shared, “For years, we dreamed of this moment. Now we can finally hope for a Syria that belongs to all of us, without fear.”
Diplomatic Efforts Amidst Change
As celebrations unfolded in Damascus, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara to discuss Syria’s evolving political landscape. Both leaders emphasized the need for an inclusive, non-sectarian interim government that protects minority rights and ensures equality for women.
The meeting also addressed shared concerns about the Islamic State group and the situation in southern Syria, where Israel has established a buffer zone. However, disagreements over the role of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-led group backed by the U.S. but opposed by Turkey, remain unresolved.
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