Thu Jan 30 21:34:52 UTC 2025: ## Syria’s Interim President Vows National Dialogue After Assad’s Fall
**DAMASCUS, Syria** – Syria’s newly appointed interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has pledged to hold a national dialogue conference and establish transitional justice following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. In his first televised address Thursday, Sharaa vowed to preserve civil peace and territorial unity, promising the formation of a committee to organize the conference within days. He also committed to issuing a new constitutional declaration and pursuing those responsible for atrocities committed during the war, both within and outside Syria.
Sharaa’s appointment follows a visit by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the first head of state to visit Damascus since Islamist-led rebels seized power less than two months ago. The Emir emphasized the urgent need for an inclusive government to consolidate stability and facilitate reconstruction. Qatar, a former supporter of the rebellion against Assad, has pledged significant humanitarian and infrastructural support, including assistance with public sector salaries and infrastructure rehabilitation. This support mirrors similar commitments from other nations including Turkey and Saudi Arabia.
The visit is part of a wave of diplomatic activity in Damascus, with officials from Russia, France, Germany, and Turkey also visiting in recent weeks. A high-level Turkish military delegation also visited on Thursday. Saudi Arabia, previously a vocal opponent of Assad, has congratulated Sharaa and promised to help lift international sanctions. This marks a significant shift in regional relations, with several Arab nations now working towards supporting Syria’s transition. Sharaa’s government has announced the dissolution of all armed groups involved in Assad’s overthrow and the former government’s army. A transitional government, tasked with governing until March 1, is already in place.
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