Mohammed al-Bashir, a little-known figure previously managing a rebel-held area in northwest Syria, has declared himself caretaker prime minister with backing from former opposition groups. In a televised address, he vowed to lead until March 2024, stating, \"We are caretaking the government\" as institutions transition.
Calm Returns… But For How Long?
After days of chaos following President Assad’s ouster, Damascus saw banks reopen and shops resume business. Rebel-aligned security forces replaced fighters in cities, signaling a tentative stability. Meanwhile, a fragile ceasefire brokered by the U.S. halted clashes between rival factions in northern Syria. The deal requires Kurdish-led SDF forces to withdraw from Manbij, raising questions about regional power shifts.
Israel's 'Strategic Strikes' Escalate Tensions
Israel launched 350 airstrikes targeting Syrian weapons stockpiles and naval facilities, claiming it aimed to prevent arms from reaching \"terrorist elements.\" Prime Minister Netanyahu warned Syria’s new leadership against allowing Iranian influence, threatening \"forceful\" retaliation. Israeli troops also advanced into a demilitarized zone near Damascus, drawing condemnation from Türkiye, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.
Global calls for de-escalation grow as UN envoy Geir Pedersen urged Israel to halt operations. With Syria’s future hanging in the balance, all eyes are on al-Bashir’s next moves.
