One Year On: Syrians Celebrate Freedom from Assad Regime's Grip
In the heart of Damascus, thousands of jubilant Syrians gathered in public squares yesterday, marking one year since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's three-decade-long tyrannical rule. Amidst renewed optimism for long-lasting freedom and safety, the crowd's infectious energy resonated throughout the city.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who came to power after Assad's ouster, acknowledged that his government has taken significant steps to provide basic services to citizens. He expressed hope that Syria could "turn the page" from a "dark chapter" in its history and look towards a promising future.
For many Syrians, however, it's not just about the promise of better governance but also about security and freedom. A young woman, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, "Today truly feels like a celebration. Syria is free. We are living in safety. This is a happiness we haven’t seen among Syrians in ages."
For some, the end of Assad's rule has been a long-awaited reprieve from fear and oppression. Khaled Jaboush, a university student, exclaimed, "Injustice and oppression have been lifted off the shoulders of Syrian citizens. Now they can express their feelings, their liberty, and their beliefs." He continued, "We are delighted with the wise leadership we have. We are happy with the development and progress which, God willing, will prevail in our country."
Another student, Yehya, echoed similar sentiments, saying that since Assad's fall, people no longer feel scared walking past army officers. His friend Hussein added, "Everyone is chanting, everyone is together, all in harmony. I feel the security forces and the army are now part of us." The students also highlighted improvements in services such as electricity and internet connectivity.
For those who spent years abroad due to Assad's rule, returning home has been a life-changing experience. Rawan al-Omari, who had lived abroad her entire life, stated, "There were times when I visited Syria, but I felt like an outsider. Now, no – now I feel like I belong in my own country."
As the Syrian people celebrate their newfound freedom, they remain cautiously optimistic about the future. With international sanctions lifted and foreign ties reshaped under al-Sharaa's government, many believe that a new era of stability is dawning on the country.
However, not everyone is immune to the challenges facing Syria. The remnants of sectarian violence and ongoing Israeli attacks continue to pose threats to the nation's peace. Nonetheless, for now, Syrians are content in their newfound freedom and eager to see what the future holds.
In the heart of Damascus, thousands of jubilant Syrians gathered in public squares yesterday, marking one year since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's three-decade-long tyrannical rule. Amidst renewed optimism for long-lasting freedom and safety, the crowd's infectious energy resonated throughout the city.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who came to power after Assad's ouster, acknowledged that his government has taken significant steps to provide basic services to citizens. He expressed hope that Syria could "turn the page" from a "dark chapter" in its history and look towards a promising future.
For many Syrians, however, it's not just about the promise of better governance but also about security and freedom. A young woman, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, "Today truly feels like a celebration. Syria is free. We are living in safety. This is a happiness we haven’t seen among Syrians in ages."
For some, the end of Assad's rule has been a long-awaited reprieve from fear and oppression. Khaled Jaboush, a university student, exclaimed, "Injustice and oppression have been lifted off the shoulders of Syrian citizens. Now they can express their feelings, their liberty, and their beliefs." He continued, "We are delighted with the wise leadership we have. We are happy with the development and progress which, God willing, will prevail in our country."
Another student, Yehya, echoed similar sentiments, saying that since Assad's fall, people no longer feel scared walking past army officers. His friend Hussein added, "Everyone is chanting, everyone is together, all in harmony. I feel the security forces and the army are now part of us." The students also highlighted improvements in services such as electricity and internet connectivity.
For those who spent years abroad due to Assad's rule, returning home has been a life-changing experience. Rawan al-Omari, who had lived abroad her entire life, stated, "There were times when I visited Syria, but I felt like an outsider. Now, no – now I feel like I belong in my own country."
As the Syrian people celebrate their newfound freedom, they remain cautiously optimistic about the future. With international sanctions lifted and foreign ties reshaped under al-Sharaa's government, many believe that a new era of stability is dawning on the country.
However, not everyone is immune to the challenges facing Syria. The remnants of sectarian violence and ongoing Israeli attacks continue to pose threats to the nation's peace. Nonetheless, for now, Syrians are content in their newfound freedom and eager to see what the future holds.