• Syria’s interim government has pledged to establish reform, rebuild the economy, while calling for the immediate lifting of sanctions.
• Security is a priority for the new leadership, as it addresses Israeli incursions, while vowing to protect Syria from external threats.
In an recent interview with the press, Arnaut emphasised that re-establishing public confidence in the rule of law and the judiciary is central to the government’s mission as it ushers in a “new era.” He stressed that justice for the countless Syrians detained and tortured in al-Assad’s infamous prisons is imperative.
“By holding criminals accountable, we aim to heal the deep wounds inflicted upon our society and pave the way for a more just and equitable future,” Arnaut stated.
Reform and Inclusivity
The interim government’s priorities include reforming deeply corrupt state institutions. Officials who “committed crimes and harmed the Syrian population will be dismissed and held accountable,” Arnaut declared. However, the government intends to prioritise individuals who have been “dedicated, professional, and loyal to their country.”
Arnaut also highlighted the administration’s commitment to inclusivity by engaging Syrians from all ethnic and religious backgrounds.
“Job vacancies will be open to all. We need to unite our efforts to build the country,” he remarked. The new government will focus on rebuilding infrastructure and revitalising the economy, both domestically and through international cooperation.
Sanctions and Economic Challenges
Arnaut called for the immediate lifting of long-standing sanctions imposed on Syria, which he said have “deeply affected the people.” “Now that al-Assad has been toppled, the sanctions on the country must be lifted,” he urged. “It is essential to lift the sanctions and allow Syrians to live as they dream.”
Syria’s war-ravaged economy has left millions struggling to afford basic necessities such as food and shelter. To alleviate economic distress, Arnaut confirmed that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Julani, will implement a public servant salary increase of up to 400 percent. The international community is closely monitoring al-Sharaa, whose former al-Qaeda-affiliated group now wields significant influence, to assess whether the new government can restore stability after 13 years of civil war.
Security and Regional Tensions
Arnaut reaffirmed that security remains a top priority for the new administration, emphasising the protection of public and private property. Since al-Assad’s ouster on December 8, Syria has endured intensified Israeli airstrikes and incursions, including expanded Israeli tank operations in the Golan Heights to establish a “buffer zone.” These actions have drawn condemnation from various countries and the United Nations.
Addressing Israel’s repeated attacks, Arnaut stated that the government’s strategy “will be outlined in the near future” but refrained from providing specifics. “People are angry and think that the regime has been replaced by Israeli aggression. I currently have no further details on this matter,” he said.
“Our primary goal is to ensure Syria is safe from any external threats,” Arnaut concluded.
