Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, announced in an interview that elections may take up to four years, emphasizing constitutional revisions and the necessity of U.S. sanctions being lifted post-Assad. He noted the importance of Russia and Iran as crucial allies during this transition.
In a recent interview aired on Al Arabiya, Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, outlined ambitious plans for the nation’s future, indicating that the election process could extend over four years. This projection comes in the wake of the removal of former President Bashar al-Assad, facilitated by al-Sharaa’s Islamist faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). He highlighted the necessity for constitutional reforms, estimating that these could demand two to three years to accomplish. Sharaa also expressed his desire for a shift in U.S. policies under the incoming Trump administration, advocating for the lifting of sanctions imposed on the country. He argued that the sanctions were justified only under Assad’s regime, and with his departure, they should be rescinded automatically.
The situation in Syria has been profoundly shaped by more than a decade of civil conflict, escalating since 2011. The Assad regime faced widespread opposition, resulting in a fragmented political landscape and the rise of numerous factions, including HTS. Following the recent ousting of President Assad, al-Sharaa has emerged as a significant figure, attempting to navigate the country’s tumultuous path towards potential elections. His emphasis on alliances with countries such as Russia and Iran reflects ongoing geopolitical dynamics, while his calls for sanction relief underscore the economic challenges faced by the war-torn nation.
In conclusion, Ahmed al-Sharaa’s statements signal a pivotal moment for Syria as it charts a course toward post-Assad elections. His timeline for electoral processes, coupled with a strong focus on constitutional reforms, indicates an intention to stabilize and legitimize governance in the war-torn country. However, the hope for U.S. sanctions to be lifted hinges on significant changes in international relations and the perceptions of Syria’s new leadership.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
