Thu Jan 09 07:49:42 UTC 2025: ## Damascus Celebrates One Month After Assad’s Ouster; International Community Weighs Sanctions Relief
DAMASCUS, SYRIA – Thousands of Syrians celebrated the one-month anniversary of Bashar al-Assad’s overthrow with a concert in Damascus on Wednesday night. The event, held at a basketball center, marked the end of the Assad family’s five-decade rule and nearly 14 years of civil war. Al-Assad fled to Russia on December 8th and remains unseen.
Al Jazeera reported a palpable sense of exuberance among attendees, with even public displays of Assad’s image defaced. Proceeds from the concert will benefit prominent NGOs, including the White Helmets.
Syrians expressed hope for a brighter future, citing years of fear and economic hardship under Assad’s regime. Bookstore owner Mamoun Nahlawi highlighted the need for sanctions relief from the US and other Western powers to revitalize the economy. Syria is one of the world’s most sanctioned countries.
The UN Security Council held its first meeting of the year on Wednesday, focusing on the potential lifting of sanctions. UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, emphasized the need for an inclusive political transition to facilitate much-needed economic support. The UN also stressed that sanctions should not hinder humanitarian aid.
Meanwhile, the US is engaging in talks with Qatar and the UAE regarding potential sanctions relief for Syria, contingent upon the new government severing ties with Russia and Iran, and demonstrating political stability. A national conference to discuss Syria’s transition to democracy is planned for the coming weeks.
First Piper 