In a significant development following the toppling of President Bashar al-Assad, Mohammed al-Bashir has been appointed as the caretaker prime minister of Syria’s transitional government. His term will last until March 1, 2025, as announced in a televised statement on December 10, 2024. The move signals a critical step in establishing a new governance structure after more than 50 years of Assad family rule.
Ties to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)
Al-Bashir’s appointment comes amidst his close association with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group that led the swift 12-day offensive resulting in the capture of Damascus. Previously, al-Bashir served as the head of the Syrian Salvation Government (SSG), a de facto administration operating in the HTS-controlled Idlib province since 2017. This government, equipped with ministries and judicial systems, was established to provide essential services to the region’s population, cut off from the former central administration.
Plans for the Transitional Period
Al-Bashir emphasized the transitional government’s immediate priorities in his statement:
“Today we had a meeting for the cabinet and invited members from the old government and administration in Idlib and surrounding areas to facilitate necessary work for the next two months. This period will help us establish a constitutional system to serve the Syrian people better,” he said during an interview with Al Jazeera.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts to reinstate institutions and extend assistance to regions like Aleppo, the first major city to fall into opposition hands during the recent offensive.
A Diverse Background in Leadership
Al-Bashir, trained as an electrical engineer, also holds a degree in Sharia and Law. Before his appointment, he served as the SSG’s development minister and has held various roles in education. His administrative experience, combined with his ties to HTS, positions him as a figure capable of navigating the transitional phase, though his close alignment with HTS has drawn scrutiny internationally.
Challenges Ahead Amidst Israeli Strikes
The transition period is unfolding amidst escalating external tensions, including Israeli airstrikes targeting remnants of the Syrian army. These attacks have added layers of complexity to a region already ravaged by over a decade of conflict that began in 2011 as a peaceful uprising against al-Assad.
The collapse of the Syrian army, whose forces retreated in the face of opposition advances, has left the new leadership to contend with rebuilding the state while managing internal and external threats.
Julani’s Involvement in the Transition
HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, known as Abu Mohammed al-Julani, played a pivotal role in discussions with outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Ghazi al-Jalali to ensure a smooth transfer of authority. Their talks underline the group’s influence in shaping Syria’s immediate political future.
A Glimpse of Normalcy in Damascus
Despite the turmoil, signs of normalcy are emerging in Damascus. Banks and shops reopened shortly after al-Assad’s fall, reflecting cautious optimism among residents about the new administration’s ability to stabilize the nation.
Outlook on the Transitional Government
The next few months will be critical as al-Bashir works to establish a functioning government, restore basic services, and lay the foundation for a constitutional framework. With his tenure set to end in March 2025, the interim administration faces immense pressure to bring meaningful progress to a war-torn country seeking respite after years of suffering.
While challenges remain, the transitional government represents a turning point in Syria’s history, with the potential to reshape its political landscape after years of authoritarian rule and conflict.
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