Syrian President Addresses Jubilant Crowds on First Anniversary of Assad’s Fall

Syrian President Ahmed al Sharaa delivered a highly anticipated national address on Monday as thousands of citizens filled the streets of Damascus to celebrate the first anniversary of the overthrow of Bashar al Assad. The day marked one year since rebel forces swept into the capital in a lightning offensive that ended Assad’s lengthy and authoritarian rule, opening a new chapter in a nation scarred by more than a decade of war.

From early morning, crowds gathered across Damascus, with the largest celebrations taking place in Umayyad Square, a symbolic public space that has often reflected the country’s shifting political tides. Families waved flags, bands performed traditional music and children climbed onto their parents’ shoulders to catch a glimpse of the military parade that moved through the square before President al Sharaa began his speech. The atmosphere was one of relief and cautious hope as many Syrians reflected on a turbulent past and imagined the possibility of a more stable future.

President al Sharaa used the moment to thank the Syrian people for their resilience during years of hardship. He spoke about the sacrifices made by communities across the country and acknowledged the heavy losses suffered during the conflict. In his address, he emphasised that the fall of Assad did not mark the end of Syria’s struggle but rather the beginning of a long process of rebuilding political institutions, restoring essential services and healing the deep divisions that remain.

He praised the efforts of local councils, humanitarian workers and military brigades that played key roles in stabilising liberated areas over the past year. At the same time, al Sharaa stressed that national unity would be essential for Syria to move forward. He urged all Syrians, including those who had been displaced, to take part in rebuilding efforts and to contribute to the country’s emerging political landscape. The president reiterated his commitment to preparing the nation for future elections that he said must reflect the will of the people and a renewed vision for governance.

Beyond the crowds in Damascus, celebrations were also reported in several provinces that had previously witnessed some of the conflict’s most intense fighting. Residents described the anniversary as a moment of collective reflection. While there remains deep frustration over ongoing security challenges, particularly in regions still affected by sectarian tensions and economic hardship, many expressed a sense of relief that the Assad era had ended.

In his speech, al Sharaa acknowledged the challenges that persist. He referenced the need for reconciliation among communities divided by years of conflict and highlighted ongoing negotiations with Kurdish groups in the northeast, noting that meaningful dialogue was necessary to establish a framework acceptable to all Syrians. He also spoke about the importance of safeguarding national borders and stabilising the economy, both of which remain fragile after years of war.

As the celebrations continued into the evening, the mood in Damascus blended hope with realism. Syrians know that the path ahead will be long, but for many, the anniversary served as a reminder that profound change is possible. President al Sharaa closed his address by urging unity, resilience and determination as Syria enters its second year of post Assad transformation.