Hope and Joy Fill Syria's Hama a Year After al-Assad Forces Leave

Thousands of residents filled the streets of Hama, a central Syrian city, to commemorate the first anniversary of the departure of Bashar al-Assads forces, which occurred just days before the dictators downfall. Once a bastion of opposition, the city now radiates a sense of hope and confidence in Syrias future, according to Al Jazeeras Assed Baig reporting from al-Assi Square.

From balconies and rooftops, people are celebrating, Baig noted. Flags are waving, slogans are chanted, songs are sung, and theres an unmistakable sense of optimism.

On December 5, 2024, rebel fighters led by Syrias current President Ahmed al-Sharaa captured Hama, marking a significant step in their rapid advance toward the capital. Shortly afterward, Damascus fell, ending al-Assads 24-year rule as he fled to Russia.

The fall of al-Assad holds special significance in Hama, a city that endured a horrific 1982 crackdown under former President Hafez al-Assad. During that siege, government forces bombarded the city and executed thousands, including young men and entire families, with estimates of casualties ranging from 30,000 to 40,000, according to the Syrian Network for Human Rights.

Celebrations Replace Fear

Baig described Hamas atmosphere as drastically different from his previous visits two decades ago. People used to speak in whispers, afraid that a wrong word could land them in prison or worse. Today, the streets are filled with joy and celebration, he said.

Since assuming power, al-Sharaa, a former leader of al-Qaedas Syrian branch and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has dramatically shifted Syrias international standing, securing sanctions relief and restoring diplomatic relations. Serving a five-year transitional term, he has visited capitals across the Gulf, Europe, and Washington, and recently hosted a United Nations Security Council delegation. In September, he became the first Syrian leader in 60 years to address the UN General Assembly.

Ongoing Challenges

Despite progress, sectarian tensions persist in Alawite and Druze regions. Clashes earlier this year in Alawite areas and south Syrias Druze-majority Suwayda province caused hundreds of deaths, including civilians. Israel has conducted multiple military operations in Syria, claiming to protect the Druze, resulting in additional casualties, most recently in Beit Jinn near Damascus.

Analysts highlight both progress and caution. Nanar Hawach of the International Crisis Group said, Syria has opened a new chapter once deemed impossible, emphasizing foreign investment and diplomacy. Yet she added that true stability requires that all Syrians feel safe in their communities. Gamal Mansour from the University of Toronto noted that many citizens, wary of potential chaos, see al-Sharaa as the only option providing guarantees.

In Hama, Baig observed a collective hope that the new government will achieve unity and freedom for all Syrians.

Author: Sophia Brooks