Refugees begin returning to Syria as new interim government forms

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.

Key details

• 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.

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.

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.