Mohammad al-Bashir Becomes Syria's Interim PM, Calls for Refugees to Return as Stability Pledge Begins, Capacity at 20,000 Daily

Dec 11, 2024, 09:21 AM

Mohammad al-Bashir has been appointed as Syria's new interim prime minister following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. In his initial statements, al-Bashir emphasized the need for 'stability and calm' in the war-torn nation, urging Syrians who have fled to return home. He acknowledged the challenges ahead, including addressing the legacy of corruption from the previous regime and restoring security and stability across the country. The government has reportedly begun facilitating the return of refugees from Turkey, with border crossings now allowing up to 20,000 people per day. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned the new Syrian government against aligning with Iran, stating that Israel will respond forcefully if Iran establishes a presence in Syria. Meanwhile, leaders of the Syrian opposition, including Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, have echoed sentiments of exhaustion among the Syrian populace regarding further conflict, asserting that the country is not prepared for another war. Al-Bashir's government is expected to remain in power until March 2025, focusing on the reintegration of millions of refugees and the restoration of essential services.