Syrians poured into the streets on Monday to mark the first anniversary of the downfall of former ruler Bashar al-Assad, celebrating with fireworks, flags, and renewed hope for a better future after nearly 14 years of war.
The festivities commemorate one year since opposition forces toppled the al-Assad dynasty in an 11-day offensive that brought an end to 53 years of family rule.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa delivered a speech in Damascus, praising those who fought to overthrow the former regime.
“To those who stand here shaping history, you are writing a story of bravery,” he told the crowd.
“Today marks one year of freeing Syria from tyranny and restoring its greatness. Stand proud—we lost our homeland for more than five decades, but now we rebuild.”
Earlier in the day, dressed in military uniform, al-Sharaa joined the dawn prayer at the Umayyad Mosque, saying no obstacle would prevent Syrians from rebuilding their country.
“From north to south, east to west, we will rebuild a strong Syria worthy of its past and its future,” he said.
Military parades organised by the Ministry of Defence took place in Damascus and across several provinces, including Hama, Homs, and Deir Az Zor.
Progress Made, but Challenges Remain
In the year since al-Assad’s fall, the new government has begun restoring essential services. Civil servants’ minimum salaries were raised by presidential decree in June, and repairs to the national power grid have allowed major cities like Aleppo, Homs, and Damascus to receive uninterrupted electricity for the first time in 15 years.
Notorious prisons such as Sednaya, Mezzeh military prison, and Khatib have also been permanently closed.
Despite the celebratory mood, much work remains. Aleppo, which witnessed some of the conflict’s fiercest fighting, suffered damage costing billions to repair.
“That’s why the government is seeking international investment to help rebuild the country,” Al Jazeera’s Assed Baig reported from Aleppo.
Millions in the Syrian diaspora are also considering whether to return home now that al-Assad is gone. More than 782,000 Syrians have returned over the past year, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Still, job shortages, high living costs, and lack of affordable housing make reintegration difficult. Many returnees are living in damaged homes or expensive rentals.
Young Syrians express both hope and hesitation.
“Only part of the dream has come true,” said student Maha Khalil. “We have victory, but we lost years, homes, and loved ones. The real story begins now.”
Rebuilding Syria’s Future
International support flowed in on the anniversary. UN Secretary-General António Guterres reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting Syria’s political transition.
“We stand united—to build peace, prosperity, and a free, inclusive Syria,” he said.
Heiko Wimmen of the International Crisis Group told Al Jazeera that while the new government has gained strong international legitimacy, its next steps must focus inward.
Wimmen urged leaders to concentrate on rebuilding the economy now that major sanctions have been lifted. But he cautioned that attracting investment takes time due to long-standing instability.
He also stressed the need to revive political life.
“For decades, Syria’s rulers monopolised power,” he said. “This approach will no longer work. Every citizen must feel they have a voice and a place in the country being rebuilt.”