Syria’s caretaker President Ahmad al-Shara’a has engaged with regional leaders, signaling diplomatic advances but highlighting a lack of domestic legitimacy. There are rising concerns over violence and security, particularly involving HTS-led forces. Political representation issues persist, particularly regarding the SDF’s exclusion from key discussions. The humanitarian situation remains dire, underscoring critical challenges ahead for the Syrian populace.
On February 8, 2025, updates from Syria highlight the significant diplomatic engagements by caretaker President Ahmad al-Shara’a with regional leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. Although these discussions indicate an inclination towards stability and support, there remains skepticism regarding the legitimacy of HTS-led authorities being prioritized over domestic governance. Despite al-Shara’a’s recent appointment, a clear strategy for the transitional phase is still lacking, leaving critical processes like armed factions’ integration and the National Dialogue Conference uncertain.
Ahmad al-Shara’a, previously known as Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, has engaged with senior officials from various countries to seek stability in Syria. These interactions emphasize the regional states’ mixed intentions, which may harbor conflicting long-term goals amidst efforts for stability. Locally, protests have emerged in Suwayda criticizing HTS-led reforms, which appear more military-driven than genuinely transitional, reflecting wider public discontent.
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) voiced strong criticism regarding al-Shara’a’s announcements, stressing that political reform should stem from a comprehensive national conference. The SDF’s absence from the conference, attributed to failed negotiations with caretaker authorities, has raised concerns about the representation of diverse Syrian interests in governance decisions.
Amid these developments, Colonel Muhammad Abdelrahman al-Sheikh Muhammad has been appointed within the caretaker Ministry of Defense, a move seen as an attempt to strengthen arms control ahead of potential disarmament of various factions. Meanwhile, the caretaker administration grapples with increasing violence from both revenge attacks and criminal activities, with some incidents involving HTS-led security forces complicit in abuses.
Regarding security, the recent murder of Muhammad Loay Talal Tayara, allegedly under HTS custody, precipitated public outrage in Homs, prompting immediate governmental action against the involved security personnel. The government has also reported the arrests of several notable figures including former Interior Minister Muhammad Ibrahim al-Sha’ar following his surrender to HTS forces, underscoring ongoing tensions within the security apparatus.
Israeli forces continue their unauthorized operations in southern Syria, causing unrest among local populations. A recent attack on an Israeli patrol near Quneitra highlights ongoing tensions, demonstrating the complex security landscape where local actors and outside forces interact. Israeli withdrawals from governmental buildings in Al-Ba’ath City have raised alarms, with residents expressing fears over personal safety as incursions persist.
In the north-east, the SDF initiated general mobilization in response to reports of potential US troop withdrawals, further complications arise from ongoing clashes with the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA). These engagements have not shifted frontlines significantly, but persistent unrest, including a deadly car bombing in Manbij, poses challenges for caretaker authorities in maintaining stability and addressing security concerns.
Humanitarian conditions remain precarious, particularly in the Rukban camp, where ETANA reports a significant outflow of residents. Economic factors heavily influence the return of families to their homes, predominantly located in Homs. Discussions are ongoing with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent to assist returnees, albeit practical help has yet to materialize, which sustains uncertainty and distress among camp residents.
In summary, Syria’s current situation reflects a complex web of diplomatic, security, and humanitarian challenges. Caretaker President Ahmad al-Shara’a’s recent engagements signal a quest for international recognition while raising concerns about internal legitimacy. Continued violence complicates governance efforts amid regional tensions. The humanitarian crisis further exacerbates the plight of many Syrians, underscoring the urgent need for effective policy responses and safety measures.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
