In a significant upheaval, Islamist militia Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has declared the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Under interim leader Mohammad al-Bashir, the new government aims to prosecute Assad regime war criminals under Syrian law. The HTS has circulated a list identifying key figures of the Assad regime, with reports that Ihab Makhlouf has already been killed. The regime's high-ranking officials, including Maher al-Assad and the Makhlouf brothers, face imminent danger.
Bashar al-Assad's covert escape to Russia has left allies and relatives, such as his brother Maher and cousins, unprepared. His departure, facilitated by Russian and regional diplomatic maneuvers, marks a turning point. Meanwhile, the international community, grappling with Syria's post-conflict reconstruction, faces a formidable task with nearly half the population displaced and extensive infrastructure damage.
The new leadership under Ahmed al-Sharaa must strive for inclusivity and international recognition. This transition period is fraught with challenges, as the country remains fragmented by rival factions. Nonetheless, there is a cautious optimism that Syria's future can be steered towards stability and development.
