Today marks a historic moment in Syria’s history as the Assad regime, which has ruled the country with an iron fist for over five decades, has been toppled, prompting nationwide celebrations. In the country’s northeastern regions, particularly in cities such as Qamishli (Qamişlo) and Hasakah (Hesekê), Kurdish communities have been seen dismantling symbols of the old regime, including statues of the Assad family, reflecting a collective demand for change and a new beginning.
The Assad dynasty, led first by Hafez al-Assad and later by his son Bashar, maintained power from 1970 on through systematic repression, mass incarceration, enforced disappearances and widespread human rights violations. The regime’s brutal crackdowns on dissent, including the use of chemical weapons and the targeting of civilians, earned it international condemnation. Its decades-long authoritarian grip on Syria created a legacy of fear and oppression.
İlham Ahmed, a prominent Kurdish diplomat and President of the Executive Committee of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), celebrated this transformative event, calling it a “historic victory for the people of Syria”. In a powerful statement, Ahmed denounced the tyranny of the Assad regime, describing its downfall as a turning point opening the door to a democratic and inclusive Syria. “The fall of tyranny brings hope for a future built on justice and equality,” Ahmed proclaimed, urging Syrians to seize this moment to rebuild their country.
Mazloum Abdi, Commander-in-Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has highlighted the significance of this day in a statement calling for a peaceful and inclusive democratic Syria. Abdi expressed a vision of a nation where all ethnic and religious groups coexist harmoniously, with equal rights and opportunities for all citizens. His comments underline the need for unity and inclusivity as Syria moves forward.
Salih Muslim, a leading political figure of the Kurdish-led Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), echoed these sentiments. In a recent statement, Muslim emphasised the importance of this transformative period, advocating for a democratic and pluralistic Syria that respects the rights of all its constituents. He called upon all Syrians to work together to build a future founded on justice and equality.
As Syria embarks on this new chapter, the path to democracy will undoubtedly require resilience, cooperation and a shared commitment to rebuilding. The collective efforts of Syrians from all walks of life will be essential in shaping a future that honours the sacrifices made during the conflict and aspires toward lasting peace and justice.
This transformative moment offers a chance to envision a democratic Syria that embraces diversity and upholds the principles of freedom and equality, a vision that İlham Ahmed, Mazloum Abdi, Salih Muslim and others have called upon all Syrians to support.
