Syria has officially entered a new political chapter with the swearing-in of its first transitional government since the removal of Bashar al-Assad. Nearly four months after the Assad family’s decades-long rule ended, a 23-member cabinet was formally established on Saturday, aiming to restore stability to the war-torn nation.
A Government Without a Prime Minister
Unlike previous administrations, the new government does not have a prime minister. Instead, under the temporary constitution signed by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa earlier this month, a secretary-general will oversee government operations. The transitional period is set to last five years, during which the country will work toward democratic reforms and reconstruction.
The cabinet is a diverse mix of religious and ethnic backgrounds, reflecting an effort to unify Syria after years of division. While many positions saw fresh appointments, the ministers of foreign affairs and defense retained their roles from the interim government.
Key Figures in the New Government
- Anas Khattab – Newly appointed Interior Minister, previously head of Syria’s intelligence department.
- Murhaf Abu Qasra – Defense Minister, who has pledged to rebuild a professional national army.
- Hind Kabawat – A long-time opposition figure and Christian activist, now Minister of Social Affairs and Labor.
- Raed Saleh – Former leader of the White Helmets, appointed Minister for Emergency Disasters.
- Mohammed Terko – A Damascus-based Syrian Kurd, named Minister of Education.
- Mohammed al-Bashir – Former interim government leader, now tasked with restoring Syria’s energy sector as Minister of Energy.
A Divided Future?
Notably absent from the new government are members of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the autonomous administration in northeast Syria. However, earlier this month, al-Sharaa and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi reached a historic ceasefire agreement, with discussions ongoing about integrating the SDF into Syria’s national army.
The announcement of the transitional government comes just ahead of Eid al-Fitr, a significant time for the Muslim world. However, challenges remain. Syria continues to struggle with security issues, economic hardship, and the scars of civil war. The new leadership hopes that presenting a religiously inclusive cabinet will encourage Western nations to lift sanctions that have crippled the economy, leaving 90% of Syrians below the poverty line.
Ongoing Security Concerns
Hours before the government’s announcement, the US State Department issued a warning about potential terror attacks targeting embassies, international organizations, and public institutions in Damascus during the Eid celebrations. Security remains a major concern as Syria transitions to a new political reality.
As Syria embarks on this new journey, the world watches to see whether the transitional government can bring long-term peace and stability, or if old divisions will continue to hinder progress.
