Syria’s interim leadership, led by the Islamist former insurgent group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), launched a national dialogue conference in Damascus on Tuesday aimed at rebuilding the war-torn nation after nearly 14 years of conflict. The gathering, which included 600 invited representatives from across Syria, marks a pivotal step toward reconstructing the country following the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad.
Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, who took power after Assad’s fall in December, opened the conference with a call for self-reliance in Syria’s reconstruction, stating, “Just as Syria has liberated itself by itself, it is appropriate for it to build itself by itself.” His administration is under scrutiny, with both Syrians and international actors monitoring its promise of an inclusive political transition.
Syria faces immense challenges: reviving a shattered economy, rebuilding infrastructure, drafting a new constitution, and establishing justice mechanisms for war crimes. While the HTS has pledged to represent all communities, minorities—particularly Kurds, Christians, and Alawites—remain skeptical about the new government’s commitment to inclusivity.
The dialogue aims to forge a roadmap for Syria’s future, including recommendations for interim governance ahead of constitutional reforms. However, tensions persist within Syria, particularly with groups like the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northeast, which have refused to disarm and dissolve their militias. SDF representatives were excluded from the conference, further highlighting the rift.
Externally, Syria’s new leadership faces opposition from Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warning that Israel would not allow HTS or Syria’s new army to operate near the Golan Heights. The interim government, however, has firmly rejected any foreign intervention, with al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani asserting Syria’s sovereignty and independence.
This national dialogue is a critical moment for Syria’s future, with the outcome of the conference influencing its political, social, and international relations in the years ahead.
