Refugees displaced by Syria’s 13-year civil war have started returning home, following the appointment of Mohammed al-Bashir as interim prime minister.
Al-Bashir’s appointment has the backing of anti-regime forces, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which, along with the Syrian National Army (SNA), played a central role in the overthrow of former Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad.
The Biden administration has urged HTS not to assume immediate control of Syria. Instead, Washington is calling for an inclusive process to establish a transitional government.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stressed that the new government must respect minority rights, ensure humanitarian aid reaches everyone in need, and prevent Syria from being used as a base for terrorism or posing a threat to neighboring countries.
HTS, once affiliated with al-Qaeda, has attempted to distance itself from its extremist past, presenting itself as a political force following Assad’s removal.
Big picture
Rebuilding Syria will be an immense challenge after years of civil war. Cities lie in ruins, the economy is shattered, and millions of people remain displaced.
Some refugees, especially from Türkiye and other neighboring countries, have begun returning home, hopeful for a better future under the new leadership.
U.S. officials remain cautious about HTS’ commitment to inclusive governance and are focused on evaluating the group's actions rather than relying on its promises.
Freelance journalist Austin Tice, who went missing in Syria in 2012 and has not been heard from since. (Photo via Getty Images)
Refugees begin returning to Syria as new interim government forms
Ahmed al-Sharaa, a.k.a. Abu Mohammad al-Jolani (Courtesy of CNN)
Behind the scenes
The U.S. is engaging with HTS and other factions inside Syria through intermediaries to help guide the country’s transition toward a credible, transparent government.
The U.S. has also tasked HTS with assisting in the search for Austin Tice, an American journalist kidnapped in Syria in 2012. Tice’s safe return remains a high priority for Washington.
GOLAN HEIGHTS, ISRAEL - DECEMBER 9: A soldier is seen as Israeli army reinforces its ground forces in Golan Heights, Israel on December 9, 2024. ( Mostafa Alkharouf - Anadolu Agency )
Refugees begin returning to Syria as new interim government forms
GOLAN HEIGHTS, ISRAEL - DECEMBER 9: The Israeli army reinforces its ground forces as military mobility continues in Golan Heights, Israel on December 9, 2024. ( Mostafa Alkharouf - Anadolu Agency )
Regional dynamics
Israeli airstrikes have targeted the remnants of Assad’s military forces, further escalating tensions in the region.
Israel claims its actions are aimed at establishing a temporary "sterile defense zone" in southern Syria, but these moves have been criticized by regional powers, including Türkiye, Qatar, and Egypt.
What’s next?
Al-Bashir’s interim government is working to stabilize Syria and prepare for elections under international supervision.
U.S. forces will remain in northeastern Syria to continue counterterrorism operations and prevent Iranian-backed groups from taking advantage of the power vacuum.
The international community will be watching closely to see if the new government can deliver on its promises of inclusive governance and begin rebuilding the war-torn country.
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