Syrians have taken to the streets across the country to mark the first anniversary of the fall of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad, celebrating a historic turning point following nearly 14 years of war. Fireworks lit up the skies, and flags adorned cities from Damascus to Aleppo, reflecting renewed optimism for the nation’s future.

The al-Assad dynasty, which ruled Syria for 53 years, was ousted after a rapid 11-day offensive by opposition forces. President Ahmed al-Sharaa, speaking at a press conference in Damascus, paid tribute to those who fought to overthrow the former regime.

“Today we mark one year of liberating Syria from the shackles of tyranny and dictatorship,” al-Sharaa said. “From its north to its south, from its east to its west, we will rebuild a strong Syria worthy of its past and present, a Syria that supports the oppressed and establishes justice among the people.”

Earlier, al-Sharaa performed dawn prayers at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, marking the anniversary with a call for unity and resilience. Military parades were held in Damascus, Hama, Homs, and Deir Az Zor to commemorate the milestone.

Progress and Challenges

Over the past year, the new Syrian government has implemented several initiatives aimed at restoring basic services and rebuilding the nation:

• Civil service reform: A presidential decree in June raised minimum monthly salaries for government employees.
• Electricity restoration: Repairs to the power grid have allowed trial periods of uninterrupted electricity in key cities including Aleppo, Homs, and Damascus.
• Prison closures: Notorious facilities such as Sednaya, Mezzeh, and Khatib have been permanently shut.

Despite these advances, many challenges remain. Cities like Aleppo, which endured years of intense fighting, require extensive reconstruction, costing billions of dollars. The government is actively seeking international investment to aid rebuilding efforts.

Refugees and the Diaspora

Since the fall of al-Assad, more than 782,000 Syrians have returned from abroad, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). However, high living costs, limited jobs, and damaged housing continue to hinder long-term resettlement. Young people are hopeful but cautious, with some considering leaving the country.

“Only a part of the dream came true,” said student Maha Khalil. “We have victory, but we lost years, homes, children. The real story begins now.”

International Support

The anniversary also drew international attention, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reaffirming commitment to Syria’s political transition:

“We stand united in purpose – to build a foundation of peace and prosperity and renew our pledge to a free, sovereign, united, and inclusive Syria.”

Experts, including Heiko Wimmen of the International Crisis Group, emphasize that while international legitimization has been successful, the new government must now focus inward: rebuilding the economy, reviving political life, and ensuring citizens are included in governance.

“Everybody in Syria needs to be convinced that they’ll have a say in how the country is being built – and a place,” Wimmen said.