Syria's new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has taken a significant step towards unifying the country's rebel factions by brokering a deal to merge them under the Defense Ministry. This move comes just weeks after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime on December 8, 2024, marking the end of decades of Assad family rule
Al-Sharaa, who leads the powerful Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, met with other Syrian military faction chiefs on Tuesday, December 24, 2024. During this meeting, they agreed to dissolve all factions and integrate them under a unified defense ministry. This agreement is seen as a crucial step in Syria's political transition and efforts to stabilize the country after years of civil war.
Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir has announced plans to restructure the ministry, incorporating former rebel factions and officers who defected from Assad's army. This inclusive approach aims to create a more representative military force and facilitate national reconciliation.
In a move to reassure international observers, al-Sharaa has promised Western officials that there will be no revenge against the former regime or oppression of religious minorities. This stance signals a potential departure from the cycle of retribution that has characterized much of Syria's recent history.
A key appointment in this restructuring process is Murhaf Abu Qasra, a prominent figure in the insurgency against Assad, who has been named as the interim defense minister. Abu Qasra, also known by his nom de guerre Abu Hassan 600, is a senior leader in the HTS and played a crucial role in the campaign that ousted Assad.
The agreement to unify armed groups under state control extends beyond just the rebel factions. Al-Sharaa has stated that all weapons in the country, including those held by Kurdish-led forces, should come under state control. However, it's worth noting that the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which operates in northeastern Syria, is not included in this recent agreement
This ambitious restructuring faces significant challenges. Al-Sharaa must now navigate the complex task of maintaining unity among these diverse factions, each with its own interests and history of conflict. The success of this unification effort will be crucial for Syria's stability and its ability to move forward as a cohesive nation.
As Syria enters this new phase, the international community watches closely. Jordan's foreign minister has expressed support for Syria's reconstruction efforts. while Qatar has reopened its embassy in Damascus. These diplomatic moves suggest a cautious optimism among regional players about Syria's future under its new leadership.