Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, urged Syrians to celebrate the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, describing it as a victory of the revolution. Following significant protests during Friday prayers, thousands gathered in key locations, marking a new political era in Syria as the rebel forces took control of Damascus.
On December 13, 2024, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, the leader of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), urged the Syrian populace to express their joy publicly in light of recent political developments. He declared it a time to celebrate what he termed “the victory of the revolution,” a reference to the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, which occurred on December 8. Large crowds of Syrians assembled in pivotal locations including the Umayyad Square and various mosques, waving flags representing Syria’s independence—symbolic of the opposition’s ongoing struggle since the uprising commenced in 2011.
In a video message distributed on Telegram, al-Jolani, who goes by his real name Ahmed al-Sharaa, encouraged his compatriots to partake in the celebrations on the first Friday prayers following Assad’s departure. His attire during this address included a dark waistcoat, a white shirt, and a watch, projecting an image of authority. He plans to partake in the prayers at the historic Umayyad Mosque, a site of significance for worshippers during the early stages of the uprising when protests often erupted after Friday prayers.
This shift in leadership follows a strategic and rapid military offensive conducted by HTS that resulted in their control over Damascus in less than two weeks. An interim prime minister was appointed on the preceding Tuesday to oversee governance until March, marking a pivotal transition in the Syrian state with the goal of steering the country towards stability after years of conflict.
The context of the article revolves around the recent political upheaval in Syria, where the long-standing regime of President Bashar al-Assad has been effectively dismantled following a significant offensive by the rebel group HTS. This military maneuver marked a turning point in a conflict that began in 2011 when protests against tyranny surged. As the political landscape undergoes change, al-Jolani’s call for public celebration embodies both a culmination of efforts by the opposition and a new chapter for Syrian governance.
The call to celebrate by al-Jolani signifies a monumental shift in Syrian politics, illustrating the endurance and resolve of the opposition movement since its inception. As the interim leadership embarks on the challenging task of governance amidst a backdrop of jubilant public displays, the implications of this transformation remain to be seen in the broader context of Syria’s recovery from a protracted and tumultuous conflict.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
