The leader of the rebel coalition that recently took power in Syria announced that all armed opposition groups in the country would be dissolved, according to Syrian state media. Ahmed al-Shara, head of the coalition, stated that rebel fighters would come under the authority of the defense ministry, although details on the implementation of this plan remain unclear.
Al-Shara emphasized that “Everyone will be subject to the law,” as the new authorities in Damascus aim to establish stability following 13 years of civil war. The government is also seeking international recognition through diplomatic engagements with representatives from Europe, the United Nations, and the Middle East.
In a related development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited southwestern Syria, an area seized by Israeli forces after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. This marks the first time in decades that Israeli forces have advanced beyond previously controlled areas in the Golan Heights, capturing territory that includes Mount Hermon.
Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces would remain on the mountain “until another arrangement is found that guarantees Israel’s security.” Accompanied by Israel’s defense minister and other officials, the visit aimed to reinforce Israel's military presence in the region, particularly to monitor Hezbollah militants in Lebanon.
The new Syrian leadership is likely to perceive the Israeli military's actions as provocative, highlighting the challenges faced by the former rebels in consolidating control amid external pressures. Al-Shara criticized Israel's military advances and reaffirmed Syria's commitment to the 1974 agreement established after the 1973 war, urging the international community to ensure Israel's compliance.
Domestically, al-Shara's efforts to consolidate power include the disbanding of rebel groups, despite the designation of his coalition, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, as a terrorist organization by the United States and other entities, which complicates international aid. Al-Shara has called for the removal of this designation.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken indicated that the United States is prepared to assist the new government in its efforts. Al-Shara is also focused on restoring public institutions and infrastructure, stating, “Syria is tired of wars, and we want to build a state and institutions away from conflicts.”
Efforts to reopen Syria’s main airports in Damascus and Aleppo are underway, with state media broadcasting updates on administrative matters and police recruitment. The Interior Ministry has announced enrollment opportunities for police academies, signaling a shift from the previous regime's security apparatus.
In a meeting with British diplomats, al-Shara urged the lifting of sanctions imposed during the Assad regime and the restoration of diplomatic relations. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need for continued engagement with Syrian factions to facilitate reconstruction, contingent on progress toward a peaceful transition.
In contrast, Israel's defense minister expressed skepticism regarding the new Syrian government, labeling it as a facade for extremist factions. Israel has conducted airstrikes targeting Syrian military assets and approved plans to expand settlements in the Golan Heights, an area considered illegally occupied under international law.