DAMASCUS – Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s new leader following the Dec 8 ousting of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad, announced on Dec 22 that all weapons across the country, including those held by Kurdish-led forces, would be brought under state control.
Speaking alongside Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Sharaa declared, “We will absolutely not allow weapons in the country outside state control,” referring to both revolutionary factions and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The announcement signals an effort to unify military forces after years of civil war.
Regional Engagements
Sharaa also emphasized protecting minority groups and vowed to end Syria’s history of “negative interference” in Lebanon during a meeting with Druze leaders Walid Jumblatt and Taymur Jumblatt. “Syria is a country for all, and we can coexist together,” Sharaa said, projecting an inclusive tone as he traded his military attire for formal wear in a series of public engagements.
Meanwhile, Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan called for the international community to lift sanctions on Syria, advocating for global assistance to facilitate the return of displaced Syrians. Syria’s nearly 14-year civil war displaced more than half of its population, with three million finding refuge in Turkey alone.
Rising Tensions in Kurdish Regions
Tensions remain high in northeastern Syria, where Turkish drone strikes recently killed five civilians, according to a Britain-based war monitor. Both U.S. and German diplomats have urged de-escalation between Turkish-backed forces and the SDF in areas such as Kobane, with Washington pushing for a ceasefire.
Ankara has labeled the Kurdish-led SDF as linked to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a group deemed a terrorist organization by both Turkey and its Western allies.
Growing Regional and Global Concerns
International powers, including Saudi Arabia and the United States, are increasing engagement with Syria’s new Islamist leadership. While emphasizing the need for minority protections and countering extremism, many governments remain cautious about Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the Islamist group that propelled Sharaa to power and is classified as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and others.
Saudi Arabia has reportedly opened direct communication lines with the new authorities, with plans for a delegation visit soon.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the leadership change, concerns linger over HTS’s hardline ideology, as well as rising regional instability. Former backer Iran, whose influence has waned, stressed the need for Syria to combat “insecurity,” as voiced by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Syria’s new leadership faces the challenge of reconciling domestic factions, stabilizing Kurdish regions, and navigating complex international relations in the aftermath of over a decade of devastating conflict.