Reports from Syrian government or international refugee agencies

Syria's New Interim PM Mohammed al-Bashir, Backed by Rebels, Urges Refugees to Return

Dec 11, 2024, 11:04 AM

Following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad's 54-year regime in Syria, the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham rebel group has taken control of the country. Mohammed al-Bashir, supported by the rebels, has been appointed as the interim Prime Minister until March 2025. Al-Bashir has called on Syrian refugees abroad to return home, assuring that the rights of all sects will be guaranteed. Refugees have already begun returning from camps along the Turkish border. He acknowledged the country's severe financial crisis, stating that Syria only has the worthless Syrian pound and no foreign currency reserves. The new government has taken control of border crossings and airports, with resumption of their operations to be announced soon. Al-Bashir met with the outgoing government on Tuesday to discuss the transfer of ministries. Life in Damascus is starting to return to normal. Al-Bashir emphasized the monumental challenge ahead, including restoring security and stability, and addressing the inherited corrupt administrative legacy from the Assad regime.