This week, thousands of Syrians celebrated their newfound freedom during the first Friday prayers since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. Joyful chants resounded in the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus as citizens filled the historic site to reflect on their victory and the state of the country.
Joy and Hope Mark Syria's First Friday Prayers Post-Assad Regime

Joy and Hope Mark Syria's First Friday Prayers Post-Assad Regime
Traditional prayers in Syria were filled with celebration and promises of change following the removal of their long-standing leader, Bashar al-Assad.
On Friday, a significant turnout of exuberant worshippers gathered at the Umayyad Mosque—the heart of ancient Damascus—to commemorate the first Friday prayers after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The atmosphere was electric, marked by the triumphant cries of "God is great!" and revolutionary chants calling for freedom and dignity.
The day symbolized not just joy at the regime's collapse, but also hopes for rebuilding the nation. As civilians mingled with fighters—some clad in military uniforms, others waving revolutionary flags—the courtyard became a vibrant scene of unity and camaraderie.
Despite the jubilance, the heartfelt sermon delivered by the newly appointed prime minister of the rebel government, Mohammed al-Bashir, reminded attendees of the work that lays ahead. He honored those who had lost their lives in the struggle while expressing a passionate commitment to justice and reconstruction. "The chains of humiliation have been broken," he proclaimed, embodying the collective aspirations of a nationwide populace striving for a dignified new identity and governance free from oppression.
This pivotal moment in Syria’s tumultuous journey highlights a mix of celebration and sobering realities, as citizens grapple with the lingering impacts of years of conflict and the daunting path toward healing and unity.
The day symbolized not just joy at the regime's collapse, but also hopes for rebuilding the nation. As civilians mingled with fighters—some clad in military uniforms, others waving revolutionary flags—the courtyard became a vibrant scene of unity and camaraderie.
Despite the jubilance, the heartfelt sermon delivered by the newly appointed prime minister of the rebel government, Mohammed al-Bashir, reminded attendees of the work that lays ahead. He honored those who had lost their lives in the struggle while expressing a passionate commitment to justice and reconstruction. "The chains of humiliation have been broken," he proclaimed, embodying the collective aspirations of a nationwide populace striving for a dignified new identity and governance free from oppression.
This pivotal moment in Syria’s tumultuous journey highlights a mix of celebration and sobering realities, as citizens grapple with the lingering impacts of years of conflict and the daunting path toward healing and unity.