The new Prime Minister of Syria has called on Syrians who sought refuge abroad to return home following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad. Mohammad al-Bashir, appointed by rebel groups as the leader of the transitional government, told the Italian daily Corriere della Sera that one of his top priorities is “the return of millions of Syrian refugees currently outside the country.”
Bashir said in an interview published on Wednesday, “Their human capital and experience will enable the country to thrive.” He added: “I have a call for all Syrians outside the country: Syria is now a free nation that has regained its pride and dignity. Return! We must rebuild, be reborn, and we need everyone’s help.”
The Assad regime collapsed on December 8 when the group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) – labeled a terrorist organization by the United States – and its allies seized power.
The nearly 14-year civil war in Syria resulted in the deaths of 500,000 people and forced half of the population to flee their homes, with millions seeking refuge abroad.
With Assad’s departure, Syria now faces significant uncertainties. Concerns are particularly high regarding sectarian violence, even though HTS has made efforts to assure minority groups that they will be safe in the new Syria.
Various communities in the country, including Christians, Kurds, and Alawites, are now closely watching what kind of government Bashir will lead.
Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church, also made a call on Wednesday for “mutual respect” among religions in Syria.
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