In a significant power shift, Mohammed al-Bashir, a lesser-known figure supported by former rebels, has been appointed as Syria's interim prime minister. Announced on Tuesday, Bashir assumes leadership with plans to steer the country until March 1, following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad three days prior.
Al-Bashir addressed the nation via state television, highlighting a cabinet meeting focused on transferring governmental responsibilities to the caretaker authority. His rise marks a hopeful turn as the Syrian capital witnesses renewed economic activities, with banks and shops reopening, traffic resuming, and public spaces being cleaned, signaling a move towards normalization.
Behind the scenes, rebel factions have ordered fighters to withdraw from urban centers, allowing police and internal security forces linked to Hayat Tahrir al-Shams (HTS) to take control. HTS, formerly affiliated with al-Qaeda, has recently toned down its extremist image.
In the north, a ceasefire has been brokered between the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Türkiye-supported Syrian National Army (SNA) over the contested city of Manbij. SDF commander Mazloum Abdi confirmed the withdrawal of SDF fighters, following U.S. and Türkiye agreements ensuring a safe exit.
Amid these developments, Israel has intensified its military actions, conducting 350 airstrikes targeting Syria's advanced weapons stockpiles, including naval facilities in Al-Bayda and Latakia. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) aim to prevent these weapons from falling into terrorist hands. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed openness to diplomatic ties with Syria's new government but warned against Iranian influence and weapon transfers to Hezbollah.
Israeli troops have also entered the demilitarized zone in Syria, sparking condemnation from Türkiye, Egypt, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. United Nations Special Envoy Geir Pedersen called for an end to Israel's military operations in Syria, emphasizing the need for stability in the region.
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Rebel-backed figure takes charge as Syria's interim prime minister
cgtn.com
