Syria’s transition begins under islamist-led government

Interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has called for national consensus in rebuilding Syria following the fall of former leader Bashar al-Assad, while acknowledging that not all decisions will please everyone.

"Every step we take won't be met with consensus — that's normal — but we must strive for agreement wherever possible," al-Sharaa said during a televised Eid al-Fitr address from the presidential palace.

The newly formed government, dominated by al-Sharaa loyalists, includes 23 ministers — without a prime minister — and features limited representation from Syria’s minorities. While a Christian, a Druze, a Kurd, and an Alawite are included, none hold key positions.

The Kurdish autonomous administration in the north has rejected the legitimacy of the new government, citing a lack of genuine inclusion.

Al-Sharaa whose Islamist coalition seized power in December after nearly 14 years of civil war, has been granted full legislative, executive, and judicial powers under a transitional constitutional declaration set for five years.

While he pledged competence-based appointments and national participation over quotas, human rights groups remain concerned about concentrated power and inadequate protections for minorities.

Earlier this year, Syria witnessed its deadliest sectarian attacks since Assad's fall, targeting Alawite communities in the west. A government commission has been launched to investigate, and al-Shareh has vowed justice for the victims.