Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has decreed the formation of a National Security Council to oversee national security and political policies. This new council, absent under Bashar al-Assad, aims to strengthen governance, dismantle armed groups, and facilitate the nation’s reconstruction amid ongoing violence and instability. Sharaa has committed to protecting minority groups following recent upheaval.
On Wednesday, Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa announced the establishment of a National Security Council through a formal decree from the presidential office. This council is tasked with addressing national security issues and the various challenges facing the nation. The council is set to be chaired by President Sharaa himself and aims to coordinate and manage the country’s security and political strategies.
The formation of this council marks a significant shift, as such a body did not exist under the regime of deposed leader Bashar al-Assad. Its creation signifies the new authorities’ intention to impose governance, dismantle armed groups, and aid in the reconstruction of Syria, which has suffered due to over 13 years of civil conflict.
However, efforts towards stability have been hindered by recent violent events, including a surge of executions targeting members of the Alawite minority, as tensions remain high following assaults on security personnel by pro-Assad forces. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that close to 1,400 civilians have been killed due to actions by security forces or their allies, though Syrian authorities announced on Monday that their operations against Assad loyalists had concluded.
President Sharaa, who leads the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group connected to the Al-Qaeda network, has expressed his commitment to safeguarding Syria’s diverse religious and ethnic communities following the expulsion of Assad’s forces. The decree highlights the council’s role in “enhancing national security and responding to security and political challenges in the coming stage.”
The National Security Council will comprise the ministers of foreign affairs, defense, and the interior, along with the head of the intelligence agency. Additionally, there will be two advisory members and a technical expert selected by Sharaa. The council will convene periodically or at the president’s discretion to deliberate on decisions concerning national security and pertinent state challenges, facilitating cooperation among members in this critical area.
The establishment of Syria’s National Security Council by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa represents a pivotal step for the country in its quest for stability and governance after years of turmoil. While the council is intended to enhance national security and manage pressing political challenges, ongoing violence poses significant hurdles. The collaboration of key government figures within the council will be critical in navigating Syria’s complex political landscape in the aftermath of civil conflict.
Original Source: www.france24.com
