Syria's newly established leadership has initiated a landmark national dialogue conference in Damascus, framing it as a pivotal step toward reconstructing the nation after 14 years of civil war. Over 600 delegates, including minority representatives and women, convened under interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s declaration that this moment offers a rare historical opportunity to unify and rebuild.
Just as Syria has liberated itself by itself, it is appropriate for it to build itself by itself,al-Sharaa emphasized during his opening address. The conference aims to draft recommendations for transitional governance ahead of constitutional reforms and elections.
Key challenges facing Syria’s post-war rebuilding efforts include:
- Reviving a shattered economy and infrastructure
- Unifying armed factions into a national army
- Balancing minority rights with inclusive governance
The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northeast continue to resist disarmament, complicating security efforts. Meanwhile, Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu warned against HTS or Syrian military activity near the Golan Heights, underscoring regional tensions.
Syria’s interim government faces international scrutiny as it seeks to restore diplomatic ties and lobby for sanctions relief. Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani reaffirmed commitments to sovereignty, stating, We will not accept any violation of our national decisions.
Despite pledges of inclusivity, skepticism persists among Alawite, Kurdish, and Christian communities. Analysts caution that HTS’s al-Qaida-linked history could hinder global recognition, even as the group claims ideological moderation.
