Lebanese Druze leader Walid Jumblatt shakes hands with Syria’s de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, after the ousting of Syria’s Bashar al-Assad, in Damascus, Syria, December 22, 2024. REUTERS/Khalil Ashawi
Syrian Leader Seeks to Reassure Minorities in Post-Assad Era
Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s de facto ruler following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad, held a meeting on Sunday with prominent Lebanese Druze leader Walid Jumblatt in an effort to reassure minority communities about their future under the new government.
Sharaa, who leads the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), emphasized inclusivity and protection for all sects in Syria, describing the post-Assad period as “a new era far removed from sectarianism.”
Commitment to Minority Protections
In comments broadcast by Lebanese outlet Al Jadeed, Sharaa declared that HTS would safeguard Syria’s diverse religious and ethnic communities, which include Druze, Kurds, Christians, and Alawites. “We take pride in our culture, our religion, and our Islam. Being part of the Islamic environment does not mean the exclusion of other sects. On the contrary, it is our duty to protect them,” he said.
The assurances aim to address domestic and international concerns that HTS, an Islamist group, might impose strict Islamic governance on Syria’s multi-religious society.
Strengthening Regional Relations
Jumblatt, a veteran Lebanese politician and a key Druze figure, expressed optimism about building constructive relations between Lebanon and Syria in the aftermath of Assad’s ouster. The Druze are an Arab minority practicing an offshoot of Islam, and Jumblatt’s visit signals efforts to strengthen ties and build trust between Syria’s new leadership and regional stakeholders.
Focus on Rebuilding and Unity
Sharaa, notably dressed in a suit and tie instead of his former military attire, pledged to provide services to the Druze-majority city of Sweida in southwestern Syria, underscoring his commitment to supporting all communities. He highlighted Syria’s “rich diversity of sects” and promised to prioritize rebuilding the country after 13 years of devastating civil war.
To further allay fears about the future governance of Syria, Sharaa has hosted numerous foreign delegations in recent days, signaling a willingness to engage diplomatically and promote unity.
Outlook
Sharaa’s efforts to reassure minorities and project inclusivity will play a critical role in stabilizing Syria and addressing concerns about the future of governance under HTS. As Syria enters a pivotal transition period, the ability of the new leadership to maintain unity and protect all communities will be crucial to its long-term stability.
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