One year after sweeping into Damascus and ending the Assad familyβs half-century dictatorial rule, interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa urged Syrians on Monday to close ranks, rebuild broken institutions and βshape a future worthy of their sacrifices,β as the country marked the anniversary of a revolt that reshaped the Middle Eastβs political map.
The anniversary carried a mix of pride, apprehension and unfinished business.
Crowds flooded Umayyad Square for parades and celebrations, while soldiers lined the capitalβs historic avenues β scenes unimaginable before al-Sharaaβs coalition launched its lightning offensive last November, culminating in the fall of Damascus on Dec. 8.
People wave Syrian flags as they celebrate a year since the ousting of longtime dictator Bashar Assad, Damascus, Syria, Dec. 8, 2025.
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