Hama, Syria Experiences Renewed Hope and Joy One Year After Withdrawal of al-Assad Forces

In the wake of transformative political changes, the city of Hama in Syria has erupted in celebration as citizens commemorate the one-year anniversary of their liberation from a longstanding regime. With a palpable sense of hope and renewed belief in a future free from oppression, the gathering crowds reflect a significant shift in the sociopolitical dynamics of the region, presenting not only a local triumph but also an inspiring narrative amidst the complex history that defines Syria.

Thousands of people have gathered in the central city of Hama, Syria, to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the expulsion of forces loyal to former President Bashar al-Assad. This event marks a significant moment in a city that has long been a bastion of opposition against al-Assad’s rule. The atmosphere in Hama’s al-Assi Square was described as one filled with hope and belief in a brighter future, according to reports from ZezapTV correspondent Assed Baig.

Residents celebrated the day by waving flags, chanting slogans, and singing songs, signaling their joy and optimism for what lies ahead. This jubilation marks the anniversary of December 5, 2024, when rebels, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, took control of Hama during a swift and decisive offensive that culminated in the capture of Damascus, thus ending al-Assad’s 24-year reign and prompting his exile to Russia.

Hama’s history adds depth to the significance of this celebration, particularly in the context of the brutal crackdown by Hafez al-Assad, Bashar’s father, in 1982. During that uprising, government forces besieged the city, leading to an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 deaths, including many families. The memory of this tragedy weighs heavily on the collective psyche of the city’s inhabitants, making their current celebration all the more poignant.

The celebratory atmosphere is notably different from two decades ago, when fear pervaded the community. Baig recalled that during his previous visits, whispers of dissent filled the air, with citizens wary that even casual remarks might lead to imprisonment or worse. Today, however, the sense of celebration is unmistakable, reflecting a transformative change in the social climate.

Now at the helm, al-Sharaa, who previously led al-Qaeda’s Syrian branch and the splinter group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, is overseeing a remarkable resurgence in Syria’s international standing. His leadership during a five-year transitional period has enabled him to engage diplomatically, having visited countries from the Gulf to Europe and America. Recently, he welcomed a United Nations Security Council delegation to Syria, demonstrating a newfound level of engagement on the international stage.

However, despite these developments, challenges remain, particularly concerning ongoing sectarian tensions between the Alawite and Druze communities, which have seen violent clashes and numerous casualties. Incidents escalated in March and July, resulting in significant loss of life, including innocent civilians. The presence of Israeli forces, ostensibly under the guise of protecting the Druze, complicates the situation further, with ongoing military actions resulting in civilian deaths and heightened instability.

Analysts acknowledge that while Syria appears to be turning a new political leaf, true progress hinges on the overall security and safety of its citizens. Nanar Hawach, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, emphasized that diplomatic advancements must translate into genuine security for all Syrians. Additionally, many citizens view al-Sharaa as a stabilizing force, despite concerns over potential chaos in the aftermath of regime change.

In Hama, optimism continues to thrive as residents hold onto their aspirations for unity and freedom, hoping that the new government will fulfill its promise to provide a peaceful and prosperous future for all Syrians.

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