Chicago – December 15, 2024
Thousands of Syrians gathered at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus on Friday for the first prayers since Bashar al-Assad was overthrown six days ago. Interim Prime Minister Mohamed al-Bashir delivered an important sermon, calling on Syrians to come together and build a new Syria based on dignity, unity, and forgiveness.
“Victory comes with great responsibility,” Bashir said during his first public speech as prime minister. Speaking to a crowd of thousands, he urged everyone to work together to rebuild the country. His message of reconciliation and cooperation resonated with many, including fighters, journalists, and ordinary citizens.
The mosque, one of the oldest and most famous in the world, became a symbol of hope and peace. Before the sermon, the courtyard was full of moments of unity—armed fighters smiled for photos with children, reporters interviewed locals, and Damascenes shared their dreams of a better future.
Bashir emphasized that rebuilding Syria would require the efforts of all its people, regardless of their background or beliefs. “We must stand together,” he said, highlighting the importance of tolerance and coexistence to heal the divisions caused by years of conflict. Many described the gathering as a historic step toward a brighter future for Syria.
