Sat Dec 21 20:18:48 UTC 2024: ## New Syrian Government Names Key Ministers Amidst International Engagement

**DAMASCUS, Syria –** Two weeks after the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s new leadership has appointed key figures to its interim government, signaling a push to rebuild international relations. Asaad Hassan al-Shibani has been named foreign minister and Murhaf Abu Qasra (also known as Abu Hassan 600) has been appointed defense minister, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).

Both appointees are reportedly close allies of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, the de facto ruler of Syria. This appointment has raised questions about the extent of HTS’s influence over the new government. Al Jazeera reports that all 14 ministers appointed thus far have ties to al-Sharaa.

Al-Sharaa, who has engaged with various foreign delegations including the UN and US diplomats, has emphasized his focus on reconstruction and economic development. The US, which previously designated al-Sharaa a terrorist, recently lifted a $10 million bounty on his head.

This announcement comes as several countries are re-establishing diplomatic ties with Syria following the change in power. Qatar reopened its embassy in Damascus on Saturday, following Turkey’s earlier reopening, signifying a shift in international recognition of the new government. The European Union also expressed its readiness to reopen its diplomatic mission in Damascus, though France maintains its embassy closed pending security improvements.

The transition follows the December 8th takeover of Damascus by opposition forces, ending al-Assad’s 13-year rule and triggering a significant refugee crisis. The new government, installed for a three-month interim period, faces the monumental task of rebuilding a nation devastated by years of war and international sanctions.

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