HTS Forms Transitional Government in Syria
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (North Press) – Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) announced on Monday the appointment of Mohammad al-Bashir, head of the Turkey-backed “Salvation Government” in Idlib, to lead the formation of a transitional government in Syria following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad.
The decision came during a pivotal meeting between HTS leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, Mohammad al-Bashir, and former Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad al-Jallali, who was tasked with overseeing the handover of power and ensuring the continuity of government institutions during the transition period.
Leadership and Experience
Mohammad al-Bashir, born in Idlib in 1983, brings a unique blend of technical and legal expertise to his new role. A graduate in electrical and electronic engineering with a specialization in telecommunications from Aleppo University (2007), al-Bashir later earned a degree in Islamic law and legal studies from Idlib University (2021).
Prior to his current appointment, al-Bashir held multiple key positions in the Salvation Government. He served as Director of Associations Affairs and later as Minister of Development and Humanitarian Affairs before becoming Prime Minister.
Focus on Stability and Institutional Continuity
On Sunday, former Prime Minister Mohammad al-Jallali emphasized the importance of maintaining governmental functions and proposed reintegrating 400,000 public employees into their roles as a means to stabilize the country.
Speaking to Al Jazeera, sources close to the negotiations confirmed that al-Bashir’s appointment aims to ensure a smooth and organized transition of power while safeguarding Syria’s remaining governmental infrastructure.
HTS’s Operations Administration, the organizing body behind the transitional process, has emphasized its commitment to preserving key institutions and avoiding a vacuum during the early phases of governance restructuring.
Challenges Ahead
Al-Bashir’s appointment comes amid a highly polarized political climate and widespread international scrutiny of HTS’s intentions. Despite the euphoria surrounding the fall of Assad, analysts warn of the complexity of managing Syria’s fractured landscape.
Key priorities for the transitional government include organizing the return of displaced individuals, rebuilding war-torn areas, and fostering an inclusive political environment that accommodates Syria’s diverse communities.
International Reactions
The international community has cautiously observed HTS’s rise to prominence in Syria’s post-Assad era. Many nations, including the United States and members of the European Union, have underscored the importance of an inclusive, UN-led political transition under Resolution 2254.
As al-Bashir begins forming his cabinet, the next steps for the transitional government will be pivotal in determining Syria’s trajectory.