Iraqi Sunni leader Khamis Al-Khanjar hails ‘new era’ for Syria after fall of Assad regime

BAGHDAD — Khamis Al-Khanjar, head of Iraq’s Sovereignty Alliance, expressed hope Sunday for a brighter future in Syria following the end of what he described as the “criminal dictatorship” that has ruled the country for decades.

“The end of the era of the criminal dictatorial rule in Syria marks the beginning of a new era that we hope will bring prosperity and progress to the brotherly Syrian people,” al-Khanjar said in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Syria’s capital erupted in celebration Sunday morning as rebels, led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, declared the fall of President Bashar Al-Assad after entering Damascus in a rapid offensive that began on Nov. 27, capturing key cities like Aleppo, Hama, and Homs; extraordinary scenes included rebel fighters announcing Assad’s ouster on state television, with reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights claiming the longtime leader had fled.

He praised the resilience of the Syrian people, highlighting their decades-long struggle for freedom, dignity, and justice.

“The Syrians have written one of the greatest and most noble stories of struggle to achieve freedom, dignity, and justice. They have sacrificed immensely over the past 50 years to attain it,” he said.

Al-Khanjar urged all nations to respect Syria’s sovereignty and the choices of its people as they shape their future. “We call on all countries, without exception, to respect the Syrian people’s right to determine their own destiny and future, without interference. We hope this marks the beginning of a new chapter toward a state founded on citizenship, freedoms, democracy, justice, and human rights, without exclusion or marginalization.”

He concluded with congratulations to the Syrian people and revolutionary forces: “Congratulations to the Syrian people, to all revolutionaries and free individuals, and mercy to the martyrs of the great Syrian revolution.”

Al-Khanjar expressed explicit support for Syrian rebels in their recent offensive against President Bashar al-Assad, rejecting the notion of sending Iraqi troops to assist Assad’s regime. Al-Khanjar also praised Shia leader Muqtada al-Sadr for opposing any Iraqi intervention in Syria, describing his stance as “prudent and focused on prioritizing national interests.”