Latest Ahmed al-Sharaa News | Top Ahmed al-Sharaa News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking Ahmed al-Sharaa News Today | English Ahmed al-Sharaa News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Israel Strikes Near Syrian Presidential Palace Amid Rising Sectarian Tensions

May 3, 2025, 12:32 pm

Israel attacked a site near Syria’s presidential palace in Damascus early on Friday, as it described as a warning to the country’s new Islamist-backed government against incitement against the Druze minority. The strike, reported by Israel to hit land close to interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s residence, occurs as tensions within the region and sectarian unrest increase.

Syria’s government condemned the attack as a “dangerous escalation,” and officials confirmed that the target was about 100 metres from the palace. The Israeli military claimed that the operation was carried out to prevent hostile forces from reaching Druze-populated areas in southern Syria. Five wounded Syrian-Druze were evacuated to Israel for treatment.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz stated the strike sent a “clear message” to Damascus and reinforced Israel’s resolve to defend Druze communities. The move follows a string of Israeli military strikes in Syria since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad in December.

Syrian tensions have intensified in recent days following violent confrontations along sectarian lines close to Damascus, claiming more than two dozen lives. The violence began as a reaction to an audio tape said to blaspheme against the Prophet Mohammed. Israel launched a “warning strike” last week that also killed one of Syria’s security personnel.

Despite allegations of support by Israel, Syrian Druze officials in the south Sweida province have rejected outside interference. “We don’t need anyone to protect us,” said Sheikh Laith al-Balous, and Syria remains home to them.

Once conflict spread to Sweida, coming back displaced locals testified to loot. Meanwhile, Druze residents in Israel and the Golan Heights called on the state to protect Syrian relatives, while others volunteered their assistance.

Syria’s Interim President Sharaa Forms New Government, Allies Retain Power

March 30, 2025, 4:23 am

Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa announced a new transitional government on Saturday, dominated by close allies and featuring only one woman in the cabinet. The new government replaces the caretaker authorities led by Mohammad al-Bashir, who was appointed after the ouster of Bashar al-Assad on December 8.

Close Allies Retain Key Positions

Foreign Minister Assaad al-Shaibani and Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra retained their positions in the new cabinet. Anas Khattab, the former head of general intelligence, was appointed as the interior minister.

Veteran opposition leader Hind Kabawat, a member of Syria’s Christian minority and a longtime opponent of Assad, was named Minister of Social Affairs and Labour. She is the first woman to be appointed by Sharaa, signaling a limited effort toward inclusivity.

White Helmets Leader Joins Cabinet

Raed al-Saleh, the head of the White Helmets, a group that conducted rescue operations in rebel-held areas, was appointed Minister of Emergency Situations and Disasters.

Government Formation Amid Sectarian Tensions

The announcement comes amid growing international pressure for an inclusive transition following the sectarian violence that erupted earlier this month. Fighting between Assad’s Alawite community and Sunni militias resulted in civilian massacres, raising concerns over minority protection.

HTS Leader at the Helm

Sharaa, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which led Assad’s overthrow, took office as interim president in late January. He recently signed a constitutional declaration that regulates Syria’s five-year transitional period, but critics warn that the declaration concentrates power in his hands and lacks sufficient safeguards for minority communities.

Concerns Over Minority Rights

Rights groups have raised concerns over the new government’s composition, warning that it lacks adequate representation for minority groups and risks further marginalizing vulnerable communities.

Syria’s Interim President Establishes National Security Council Amid Rising Regional Tensions

March 13, 2025, 3:42 am

Syria’s acting President Ahmed al-Sharaa issued a decree to form the country’s National Security Council, the presidential office said on Wednesday.

The newly established council will have the authority to make major decisions on Syria’s national security and resolve challenges to the state. Although additional information about its structure and members was not immediately made public, the step is an attempt to improve security and governance in the midst of ongoing political and regional tensions.

Experts say the council would be an important institution in determining Syria’s security strategies and actions against both local and foreign threats.

Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s Interim Leader, Visits Key Assad Strongholds | Watch

February 17, 2025, 4:38 pm

Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa made his first official visit to the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus on Sunday, according to his office. These provinces were once strongholds of the ousted leader Bashar al-Assad.

Watch:

Tartus, once a loyal Assad stronghold, lit up in a dazzling display of color and celebration to welcome #Syria’s new president, Ahmed Al Sharaa.

Earlier, Al Sharaa visited his former powerbase, Idlib, and Latakia, another Assad bastion. pic.twitter.com/UWLzT2BdKF

— Somali Guardian (@SomaliGuardian) February 17, 2025

During his visit, Sharaa met with “dignitaries and notables,” as reported by the Syrian presidency on Telegram. Images were shared showing Sharaa meeting with several individuals, including what appeared to be religious figures, in the capital cities of the two provinces.

Footage shared by Latakia province’s official Telegram channel earlier on Sunday showed thousands of people gathered in the city, some taking photos as Sharaa’s convoy passed through.

Sharaa’s Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, led the rebel forces that ousted Assad in December, and Sharaa was appointed interim president last month.

Latakia, Assad’s hometown, along with neighboring Tartus, is home to a large portion of the Alawite community, a Shiite Muslim sect to which Assad’s family belongs. While Assad portrayed himself as a protector of minorities in Syria’s diverse society, much of the power was concentrated within the Alawite community.

Latakia and Tartus also house Russia’s only two military bases outside the former Soviet Union.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that while violence in Latakia after Assad’s downfall has decreased, occasional attacks on checkpoints still occur.

State news agency SANA, citing the interior ministry, reported that a security patrol in Latakia was attacked on Sunday, injuring two patrol members and killing a woman.

Latakia has also witnessed reprisals against those seen as linked to the former government, although such incidents have reduced recently, according to the Observatory. Security operations have been conducted to track down “remnants” of the ousted regime’s forces.

Rami Abdel Rahman, the head of the Observatory, noted, “There are still thousands of officers from the former regime present in Latakia and who haven’t settled their status” with the new authorities.

Sharaa’s visit could be interpreted as a message signaling that “there is no possibility for the regime of Bashar al-Assad to move in Latakia or on the Syrian coast,” Abdel Rahman told AFP.

Despite reassurances from Syria’s new leadership about protecting minorities, particularly the Alawite community, members of this minority remain fearful of reprisals due to their ties to the Assad family.

Sharaa’s trip follows earlier visits to Idlib, the former rebel stronghold, and Aleppo.

Putin Holds First Phone Call With Syria’s Interim Leader Ahmed al-Sharaa

February 12, 2025, 11:19 pm

Vladimir Putin has, for the first time since Sharaa’s forces ousted Bashar al-Assad in December, communicated with Syria’s interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, confirmed the Kremlin.

Russia, once Assad’s strongest ally throughout the civil war in Syria, now wants to hold on to its military presence as the regime changes. For a long time, Moscow had used its base of Tartous naval and Hmeimim air in northwest Syria to project power in the Mediterranean and Middle East.

The Kremlin described the conversation as constructive, with Putin restating Russia’s support for Syria’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The official statement made no mention of whether the two leaders might have discussed a future for Russian military installations in the country, abandoning which would mean a severe loss for regional convenience in the area of Moscow.

Meanwhile, the Syrian presidency announced that Putin had invited Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani to Moscow for further discussions. According to reports, Putin also expressed a willingness to review agreements worked out prior to this between Russia and Syria under the Assad regime.

At the end of January, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov visited Damascus, and at the time there were reports which indicated that Sharaa had insisted on the handing over of Assad by Moscow, who had reportedly fled to Russia upon his ouster. However, the Kremlin has not publicly commented on the matter.

Changes in Syria’s political landscape will strongly determine Russia’s next steps in charting its role in the governance of Syria and its relative military strength in the Middle East.

Macron Invites Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa To France For Diplomatic Talks

February 6, 2025, 2:27 am

According to the Syrian Presidency, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa accepted an official visit invitation from the French President, Emmanuel Macron for the coming period.

According to Sharaa’s office, it said that there was a telephone conversation between the two leaders that touched on core issues, particularly the economic sanctions imposed on Syria. Though there is no available information on details of the visit, the invitation is an important diplomatic engagement by France with Syria.

It comes after Assad’s fall when Syria is facing various challenges, with sanctions being one of the main reasons for economic hardship. Macron’s invitation is seen as a possible shift in diplomatic dialogue between the two nations. Observers will be watching closely to see if the visit leads to any policy shifts or relief measures for the Syrian people.

Syria’s New Leader Sharaa Set For First International Visit To Saudi Arabia

February 2, 2025, 3:03 am

Syria’s transitional President Ahmed al-Sharaa is to visit Saudi Arabia on Sunday, his first official overseas trip since taking office. The visit comes after Sharaa’s leadership in a rebel campaign that resulted in the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad in December.

Sharaa, an Islamist with a historical connection to al-Qaeda, has been looking for support from both Arab and Western nations since the removal of Assad. His visit to Saudi Arabia is an example of ongoing diplomatic efforts that are aimed at strengthening Syria’s international ties.

In January, Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister visited Damascus, marking the kingdom’s entry into talks with European and US officials. The latter is concerned with lifting the economic sanctions that have crippled Syria’s economy.

Finally, the problem of captagon, an amphetamine-like substance that has been manufactured and distributed for decades out of Syria into the Gulf, is a continued concern for several Arab states. Western anti-narcotics agencies have sounded warning bells over the smuggling network and have pointed the finger at Jordan as a transit route.

However, the new foreign minister of Syria, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, was reassuring the foreign minister of Jordan in early January that the threat of drug smuggling would be eliminated under the new Islamist leadership of Syria.

Rebel Leader Ahmed al-Sharaa Named Syria’s Interim President

January 30, 2025, 3:08 pm

Ahmed al-Sharaa, the caretaker who replaced the ousted Bashar al-Assad last month, is set to become an interim president. The announcement was made by the new leadership of Syria on Wednesday. The announcement via state media counts his top objectives for the transitional period with forming a transitional parliament.

It became a landmark victory in the nation as it falls in the context of the removal of the government became Assad fast, resulting in the appointment of a fresh government after such a historical accomplishment of the victory by a rebels’ alliance.

The success that ensued from the win that saw a leading Islamic Head Group, the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) make the ouster has ushered in A successful new season in Syria because the 50-year regime was the Assad one.

On December 8, HTS launched a swift attack that eventually resulted in Assad’s overthrow from power; this is how the political structure of Syria changed dramatically. It is during this transition that the government of Syria is established in an attempt to bring peace and stability to the country.

Sharaa Appointed as Interim President

The appointment has happened in the transition phase, and state news agency SANA has quoted military official Hassan Abdel Ghani. Reportedly, in the new administration, al-Sharaa who heads HTS, has been made president, the official who has not disclosed a timeline reportedly added. Besides assuming the mantle of the Syrian administration, the newly appointed will also represent his nation at other international forums as well. Sharma has also been tasked with the responsibility of forming a provisional parliament, which is supposed to pave the way for a new constitution and political order.

This follows the formation of a transitional government that was established after the ouster of Assad, with elections to be held by March 1. Sharaa is supposed to guide the country through this crucial period of rebuilding and reorganization.

Dissolution of Assad-Era Institutions

Sharaa’s appointment is during a time of dismantling institutions of the Assad era. This is the same conference where his role was confirmed, where military official Abdel Ghani announced that all military factions and political groups that participated in the removal of Assad were dissolved. These institutions include the dissolution of the Assad regime’s army and security agencies and the Baath party, which ruled Syria for decades.

“We are building a new security system that will secure the citizen’s security,” Abdel Ghani said while announcing plans to rebuild Syria’s army. “All military forces and political and civil revolutionary structures are dissolved and absorbed by the institutions of the state,” he added. These reforms are part of the overall process aimed at restoring order and governance in a country that has been living under the impact of more than ten years of conflict.

Sharia Defines Syria’s Transition Priorities

Sharma addressed the conference on “the victory of the Syrian revolution” and outlined Syria’s priorities during this critical phase. His focus is on “filling the power vacuum, preserving civil peace, rebuilding state institutions, and working to construct a development-oriented economy,” SANA reported. He acknowledged the immense responsibility on his shoulders, stating, “The mission of the victorious is heavy, and their responsibility is immense.”

He mentioned it would take a certain amount of time to rebuild the country, starting with a rewritten constitution for the country. This will possibly take close to four years before there are elections, or perhaps three years before a final version of a new constitution is set. This is a long period, symptomatic of how large the challenge is in rebuilding Syria’s political structure and taking care of the battered needs of people for years.

Role and Future Outlook of HTS

HTS, however, which has spearheaded the opposition against Assad, traces its roots deeply to Syria’s Al-Qaeda wing. Classified by many nations as a terrorist group, the group has recently attempted to change its opinion to be more moderate in recent times, particularly about keeping Syria’s religious and ethnic communities intact. The group will have a major significance in the transitional period, as many Western diplomats have since paid a visit to Syria, championing an inclusive transition.

The inalienable truth that Sharaa mentioned during his speech is that though the way ahead to recovery would be difficult, it was essential for the future of the country. The Syrian people who have seen the worst days of hardship would look towards a new leadership with hope and direction for rebuilding this broken nation over a long duration.

Looking Ahead: Syria’s Future in the Hands of a New Leadership

As Syria starts a new page under the government of Ahmed al-Sharaa, the rest of the world waits with bated breath to see how this transitional government is going to handle the mountainous challenges that lie ahead. Time will take to rebuild the country, re-establish peace, and construct a new political framework, but victory over Assad is a crucial first step for Syria on its long journey toward recovery.

Syria’s newly elected leadership strives to change the country into a secure and peaceful nation, but much work is needed for that dream to become a reality. As the transition president and government start working on reforms, they hope that its people will face a prosperous and integrating future.

New Leadership In Syria: Rebel Leader Ahmed al-Sharaa Becomes Interim President

January 30, 2025, 6:31 am

Syria’s new leadership announced on Wednesday that Ahmed al-Sharaa has been appointed as the interim president, following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad last month. According to state media reports, Sharaa has been tasked with overseeing the transitional phase and forming a legislative body to guide the country’s future.

Sharaa’s appointment comes in the wake of a rapid offensive led by a coalition of rebel forces, including his Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The operation, which concluded on December 8, ended five decades of Assad family rule. A transitional government had already been put in place to manage state affairs until March 1.

Formation of a Temporary Legislature

The state news agency SANA reported that Sharaa’s responsibilities include establishing a temporary legislative council until a permanent constitution is drafted. As part of the transition, the Assad-era parliament has been dissolved, and the 2012 constitution has been suspended.

During a recent conference titled “The Victory of the Syrian Revolution,” attended by key government officials and faction leaders, military official Hassan Abdel Ghani confirmed that Sharaa would also represent Syria in international diplomatic efforts.

Dissolution of Military and Security Structures

In a sweeping move, Abdel Ghani declared the dissolution of all military factions involved in Assad’s removal, including the former government’s army and security agencies. He stated that all armed groups, political bodies, and revolutionary organizations would be integrated into state institutions.

Furthermore, the former regime’s army and security services were disbanded to pave the way for a restructured national security apparatus aimed at ensuring civilian safety. Plans for rebuilding the Syrian army under new leadership were also announced, marking a significant shift in the country’s defense strategy.

Sharaa Outlines Key Priorities

In his address at the conference, Sharaa emphasised the importance of stabilising the country and restoring governance. He outlined Syria’s key priorities, including filling the power vacuum, maintaining civil peace, rebuilding state institutions, and fostering economic development.

Recognising the challenges ahead, Sharaa acknowledged that the path to democracy would take time. He previously estimated that drafting a new constitution could take up to three years, with national elections likely to be held in four years.

Uncertain Future for Syria

While earlier discussions hinted at a national dialogue involving representatives from diverse political backgrounds, there was no mention of such an initiative in SANA’s latest reports. The country remains in a fragile state, having endured a brutal civil war since 2011 that has resulted in over 500,000 deaths and displaced millions of people.

HTS, which has its origins in Syria’s Al-Qaeda faction, is designated as a terrorist organisation by several nations, including the United States. However, in recent years, the group has sought to present a more moderate stance, pledging to safeguard Syria’s religious and ethnic minorities.

Following Assad’s ouster, Western diplomats have engaged with Syria’s new leadership, advocating for an inclusive and transparent transition process. The international community will closely watch the unfolding developments as Syria attempts to navigate its post-Assad era.

Ahmed Al-Sharaa Named President For Syria’s Transitional Period

January 30, 2025, 12:46 am

According to Syrian state news agency SANA, Ahmed al-Sharaa-the de facto leader of Syria’s opposition-will now serve as president in a transitional phase. This appointment was announced on Wednesday, and it was also pronounced that Sharaa would be granted authority to form a temporary legislative council. That temporary legislative council will then operate until a new constitution has been established.

The decision was made public during a meeting held in Damascus, attended by commanders of armed groups that have supported Sharaa’s Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in their efforts to oust President Bashar al-Assad. These armed groups have played a significant role in the ongoing conflict, which has seen Sharaa’s faction emerge as a leading opposition force.

As the newly appointed president, Sharaa’s role is seen as guiding Syria through a transition period that it needs. Setting up a provisional legislative council will be a milestone in restructuring governance in Syria since the civil conflict has lasted for years. Further details of the transitional process shall be seen, as the country moves towards creating a new constitution.

This signals a potential change in the Syrian political landscape with Sharaa’s leadership, which will form a new chapter for the opposition as they continue to strive toward a peaceful resolution of the current conflict.

Syria Elections May Take Four Years, Says HTS Leader

December 29, 2024, 7:33 pm

Ahmed al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of Syria, has announced that elections in Syria could take up to four years. In his first public remarks on the timeline since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad earlier this month, Sharaa outlined a roadmap for rebuilding the nation.

Timeline for Elections and Reforms

During an interview with Al Arabiya, Sharaa revealed that drafting a new constitution could take up to three years. He emphasized that Syrians would begin to see significant changes within a year.

Sharaa leads the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, which played a pivotal role in the removal of Assad on December 8, marking the end of decades of Assad family rule and a 13-year civil war. He announced plans to dissolve HTS during a national dialogue conference, signaling a move towards inclusive governance.

Syria’s Foreign Relations and Strategic Interests

On international ties, Sharaa highlighted Syria’s strategic interests with Russia. Russia, a close ally of the Assad regime, maintains military bases in Syria and granted asylum to Bashar al-Assad after his ousting. Sharaa reaffirmed the importance of maintaining mutually beneficial relations with Russia.

He also expressed hopes for a policy shift from the incoming U.S. administration under President-elect Donald Trump. Sharaa called for the lifting of sanctions imposed on Syria, suggesting a more pragmatic approach to U.S.-Syria relations. Senior U.S. diplomats who recently visited Damascus described Sharaa as pragmatic and confirmed that Washington has removed the $10 million bounty previously placed on his head.

A New Era for Syria

The transition marks a significant turning point for Syria as it rebuilds after years of civil war. Sharaa’s vision includes a focus on constitutional reform, national dialogue, and improved international relations. The dissolution of HTS signals a move towards broader political participation and reconciliation.

Syrian rebels factions to be part of new government

December 25, 2024, 6:19 pm

Syria’s de facto leader and Vice President, Ahmed al-Sharaa and the leaders of the rebel groups had a meeting where they have agreed to include rebels in the Syrian defence ministry, Al Jazeera reported on Tuesday.

A statement was released by the new administration, a meeting between al-Sharaa and the leaders of the rebel groups resulted in a deal for the dissolution of these factions and their integration into the ministry.

However, the Kurdish-led, US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northeastern Syria are not part of this agreement.

Syrian interim Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir had also announced the ministry’s restructuring would involve former rebel groups and defected officers from Bashar al-Assad’s army.

This marks a significant development in Syria, particularly after the fall of ousted President Assad’s regime, when opposition forces had taken control of parts of Damascus. The main concern had been how these armed groups would unite.

Al-Sharaa’s leadership has now facilitated this merger under the Defence Ministry, a notable achievement.

Following a major offensive that brought rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) into power in Damascus, Murhaf Abu Qasra, a key figure in the rebellion, was appointed as the interim defence minister. Al-Sharaa has emphasised that all weapons in Syria, including those held by Kurdish forces, will be under state control and also reassured Western officials that HTS would not seek revenge against the previous regime or oppress minorities, focusing instead on reconstruction and economic development.

The Syrian opposition fighters took control of Damascus on December 8, leading to Assad’s flight and ending his regime after over 13 years of civil war. Forces loyal to al-Sharaa have established a three-month caretaker government. On the same day, Qatar called for the swift lifting of sanctions on Syria, following the reopening of its embassy in Damascus and a high-level visit that marked a shift in diplomatic relations.

US Withdraws Reward for HTS Leader Amid Positive Talks

December 21, 2024, 8:36 am

The United States has decided to remove the $10 million reward for information leading to the capture of Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s new leader and head of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group. This decision followed important discussions in Damascus, which marked the first visit by US officials to Syria since President Bashar al-Assad was ousted earlier this month.

Positive Messages from the Talks

During these talks, Barbara Leaf, US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, shared that the US received “positive messages” from HTS. Moreover, HTS assured the US that they would work to prevent any terrorist threats. “Based on our discussion, I told him we would not be pursuing the Rewards for Justice reward offer that has been in effect for some years,” Leaf explained.

Shifting US Policy Toward Syria

This move signals a shift in US diplomatic efforts. While HTS played a key role in ousting Assad, the group was designated a terrorist organization by the US in 2018 due to its ties with al-Qaeda. However, Leaf emphasized that the US fully supports a Syrian-led political process, one that is inclusive and respects the rights of all Syrians, including women and various ethnic and religious groups.

Focus on Syrian Transition and Missing Americans

Additionally, the US is focusing on efforts to locate missing Americans, particularly journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared in 2012. HTS has shown a willingness to assist in finding Tice, although Leaf made it clear that this is not part of a direct exchange. “Again, not a quid pro quo, but a chance for the Americans and the Syrians to really talk about how they can work together in the weeks and months ahead,” she added.

Ongoing US Military Operations

Meanwhile, the US military continues its operations in Syria. For instance, a recent airstrike in Deir ez-Zor killed an ISIL leader named Abu Yusif. As CENTCOM commander Erik Kurilla pointed out, the US will not allow ISIS to regroup or free operatives detained in Syrian facilities. Despite the changing political dynamics, the US still maintains around 2,000 troops in Syria and has no plans to withdraw, given the ongoing threat posed by ISIS.

A Turning Point in US-Syrian Relations

Ultimately, Leaf’s visit marks a turning point in US-Syrian relations. It signals a delicate balance between counterterrorism efforts and the goal of fostering a stable political transition in Syria.