Damascus (TDI): Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa on Monday pledged to advance justice, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence, marking one year since the overthrow of Bashar Assad.
Tens of thousands of Syrians took to the streets to celebrate the anniversary, waving national flags and joining in nationwide festivities.
Sharaa’s alliance launched a swift offensive in late November last year, seizing Damascus by December 8 and ending more than five decades of Assad family rule and over a decade of civil war.
In a speech commemorating the occasion, Sharaa said, “Today, with the dawn of freedom, we declare a historic break from the past, a dismantling of falsehood, and a permanent departure from an era of despotism, ushering in a bright new dawn founded on justice, benevolence, and peaceful coexistence.”
The celebrations continued throughout the day, with fireworks lighting up the sky above chanting crowds, accompanied by revolutionary songs over loudspeakers.
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Sharaa also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transitional justice, promising accountability for those responsible for crimes under the previous regime.
The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011 following Assad’s violent crackdown on pro-democracy protests, left over half a million dead and displaced millions.
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Thousands remain missing, many believed to have perished in government detention. Families continue to seek justice for atrocities committed during Assad’s rule.
Sharaa has also achieved notable progress on the international front, including restoring Syria’s diplomatic standing and securing some sanctions relief. However, he faces major challenges at home, including rebuilding trust, ensuring security, strengthening institutions, and maintaining national unity.
