Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, urged Syrians to celebrate the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad, marking a significant event in the ongoing conflict. The announcement was made via a video message, coinciding with the first Friday prayers since Assad’s ousting. Enthusiastic crowds gathered in Damascus, signifying widespread support for the newly established leadership.
Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, leader of the Islamist faction Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has urged Syrians to flood the streets in celebration of what he described as the “victory of the revolution.” His call came following the recent overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad, on December 8, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the Syrian conflict that began in 2011. This rallying message was conveyed through a video shared on Telegram, wherein he expressed congratulations to the Syrian populace, encouraging them to express their joy publicly.
The celebrations were notably vibrant, with crowds gathering in Damascus’ central Umayyad Square, waving independence-era flags synonymous with the opposition’s struggle over the years. This week’s gatherings coincide with the first Friday prayers post-Assad, evoking memories of the original protests during the uprising. Al-Jolani is expected to participate in these prayers, underscoring the momentous nature of the occasion for his faction and supporters alike.
In a rapid military campaign last month, HTS successfully seized control of Damascus, dramatically altering the Syrian political landscape and leading to the ousting of Assad with unprecedented speed. Following this upheaval, the newly established interim governance has appointed a prime minister to oversee national affairs until March, setting the stage for potential restructuring of the country.
The conflict in Syria, which erupted in 2011, has been marked by extreme violence and complex political struggles. The current upheaval represents a pivotal moment since Assad’s regime has been a cornerstone of the conflict for over a decade. The recent leadership change by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham signifies a shift in power dynamics, as HTS has historically been one of the more prominent rebel factions opposing the Assad government.
In conclusion, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani’s call for celebration marks a crucial turning point in the Syrian revolution, heralding the fall of a long-standing regime and the emergence of a new leadership. The enthusiastic public response highlights the significance of this juncture not only for HTS but for the broader Syrian populace who have endured years of conflict. It’s a moment of historical proportions, potentially reshaping Syria’s political landscape for years to come.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
