On Sunday, Syrians were absorbing news about a temporary government set to control for the upcoming five years. They welcomed it with a mix of resignation, recognizing the ongoing dominance of the rebel group which came to power in December, and optimism for its representative nature of Syria’s main ethnic groups. The rebel faction that ejected President Bashar al-Assad in December has been de facto in charge, with their leader, Ahmed al-Shara, identified as interim president to lead the transition. Mr. al-Shara revealed the notion of a new government late Saturday, concluding the Ramadan fast, with a ceremony for 23 cabinet ministers spanning into Sunday. This government reflects a balance between demands for a diverse cabinet to reunite the war-torn, divided nation and maintaining Mr. al-Shara’s allies in key positions. His appointees include seven linked to his former governance in rebel-held Idlib, nine independents, and five having served in the early Assad regime. Each of Syria’s main ethnic groups, including Kurds, Druze, Christians, and Alawites, the sect of Mr. al-Assad, are represented. The sole female minister, Hind Kabawat, a Christian, is appointed to lead the Ministry of Social Affairs. While this move is seen as a step towards healing divisions, calls for broader inclusion echoed, especially in light of recent sectarian unrest. There is a consensus on the necessity for a more inclusive approach to genuinely reflect Syrian society and to garner the support needed to govern effectively. Muhammad Haj Kadour contributed reporting from Damascus.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/30/world/middleeast/syria-new-transitional-government.html