Syria’s interim leader attends Friday prayers.
In a historic moment at the iconic Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, Interim Syrian Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir joined thousands of worshippers for Friday prayers on December 13. This marked the first such gathering since President Bashar al-Assad’s 24-year rule ended just a week ago, ushering in what many are calling a new era for Syria.
Amid the crowd’s cheers and chants, al-Bashir delivered an impassioned speech, describing the end of Assad’s reign as a “new dawn of liberty and dignity.” He didn’t shy away from addressing the hardships ahead, urging the nation to rebuild with humility and a sense of responsibility. “We’ve removed the criminals, but victory comes with its duties. Let’s serve God, remain humble, and ensure mercy guides us,” he said, calling on the new leadership to foster compassion and unity.
For worshippers like Abeer Mehlaa, who traveled from nearby Zabadani, this moment was deeply personal. “I came to celebrate and pray,” she shared. “His rule will be different.” The mosque, a symbol of spiritual and historical significance, became the backdrop for nationwide celebrations during Friday prayers.
This shift in power comes amid international calls for stability. U.N. Secretary General António Guterres emphasized the need for an inclusive political process and smooth power transition. However, the region remains tense, with Israel’s airstrikes across Syria drawing criticism for violating sovereignty. Meanwhile, Israeli forces have secured Mount Hermon on the Lebanon-Syria border, marking a significant strategic move.
As the country steps into uncharted territory, Syrians are embracing cautious hope for a future defined by freedom and renewal.
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