Syrian Protests Erupt in Damascus as Citizens Demand Secularism, Democracy, and Women’s Rights Amid Political Shift and International Engagement
Hundreds of Syrian citizens participated in protests in Damascus, calling for the establishment of secularism, democracy, and women’s rights. Both men and women at the gathering chanted slogans such as “We want democracy, not a religious government,” “A free and civil Syria,” and “The Syrian nation is one.” Demonstrators carried placards with messages like “There is no free nation without free women,” highlighting the role of women in the movement.
These protests occurred after opposition groups, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), captured Damascus on December 8, effectively ending over five decades of rule by the Assad family. HTS, which was once considered an offshoot of Al-Qaeda, is still classified as a terrorist organization by some Western countries. However, HTS leaders, particularly Ahmad al-Shara, also known as Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, have attempted to moderate their stance, providing assurances regarding the protection of the rights of ethnic and religious minorities in Syria.
Following their takeover, HTS appointed a temporary government to manage affairs in Syria, which is set to operate until March 11. On December 19, UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that after Assad’s fall, a “spark of hope” has emerged in Syria, although he acknowledged the significant challenges that lie ahead.
In a separate incident, Israeli forces shot and wounded a Syrian protester, Maher al-Hussein, during a demonstration in Maariyah, southern Syria, demanding an end to the Israeli military presence. This protest occurred after the opposition forces toppled President Bashar al-Assad, leading to increased Israeli airstrikes in the region. Local media reported that al-Hussein was taken to a hospital for treatment. The Israeli military stated they acted in response to a perceived threat during the protest.
A senior US diplomat informed Syria’s new leader, Ahmed Al-Shara, that Washington was scrapping a reward for his arrest. The diplomat welcomed “positive messages” from their talks, including a commitment to fight terrorism. This development marks a significant shift in US-Syrian relations following the recent political changes.
Additionally, a group of 50 independent UN human rights experts has called on the international community to support Syria’s rebuilding efforts. They emphasized that the country must be free of foreign interference and aggression. The experts highlighted ongoing foreign military interventions, particularly Israeli airstrikes and incursions into Syrian territory, as significant obstacles to peace and stability.
The experts reiterated their call for all foreign occupying forces to withdraw from Syria and emphasized that while international support for reconstruction is essential, the process must remain free of foreign interference. They also stressed the need for a Syrian-led political transition that is inclusive and non-sectarian, taking into account the interests of all elements of Syrian society.
It should be mentioned that despite restrictions, the holy Shrines of Sayyida Zainab and Sayyida Ruqayya are secured and open to devotees of Ahl al-Bayt and pilgrims.
