Syria has sworn in a new 23-member transitional government nearly four months after the removal of the Assad family. The diverse Cabinet aims to stabilize the country and restore essential services, notably in electricity and oil. Not including members from the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, the government seeks to address internal violence and is positioned to engage with Western nations concerning economic sanctions.
Syria has inaugurated a new transitional government, marking a significant development nearly four months after the removal of the Assad family from power. The newly formed 23-member Cabinet is diverse, featuring members from various religious and ethnic backgrounds, and it replaces the interim government established following Bashar Assad’s ousting in December. Notably, the transitional government’s structure deviates from tradition as it will function under a secretary general rather than a prime minister.
The Cabinet was announced just ahead of Eid el-Fitr, which initiates an important religious period in Syria. While the ministers of foreign affairs and defense retained their positions, new appointments included notable figures like Anas Khattab as interior minister, previously the head of the intelligence department. In a formal statement, interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa highlighted the government’s formation as a collective commitment to establish a new state.
Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra emphasized his intention to develop a professional army that serves the people. The formation of the Cabinet did not encompass members from the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces or its civil administration in the northeast, despite ongoing talks for a nationwide ceasefire and future military integration.
Significant appointments within the new government include Christian activist Hind Kabawat as minister of social affairs and labor, and Raed Saleh, former head of the Syrian Civil Defense, now serving as minister for emergency disasters. The resumption of critical services, particularly in electricity and oil sectors, underlined the responsibilities assigned to Mohammed al-Bashir, who previously led the interim government.
The government’s primary objective is to stabilize a nation fraught with violence, recent clashes resulting in over 1,000 casualties, primarily among the Alawite community. The diverse makeup of the Cabinet—including representation from women and minority sects—aims to signal to Western nations a commitment to inclusivity in the political landscape of Syria, potentially easing economic sanctions that have greatly impacted the population.
Just before the government announcement, the U.S. State Department warned citizens of potential increased attacks during the Eid el-Fitr festivities, advising caution against possible threats targeting embassies and public institutions in Damascus.
Overall, the establishment of this transitional government symbolizes a new chapter for Syria, striving to transition toward stability and resilience despite significant challenges.
In conclusion, Syria’s new transitional government represents a noteworthy shift in the nation’s political landscape following the removal of Bashar Assad. Its diverse composition and commitment to forming a stable state highlight efforts to address ongoing challenges, including achieving peace and restoring essential services. The international community’s response and the government’s capacity to manage internal issues will play crucial roles in shaping Syria’s future.
Original Source: www.local10.com
