Life in Damascus returning to normal despite Israeli bombing
Dec 10, 2024
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Lina Sinjab, a BBC correspondent with extensive experience covering Syria, discusses the shifting dynamics in Damascus following the fall of the Assad regime. She highlights the surprising return to normalcy amid ongoing Israeli bombardments. The conversation delves into the challenges of establishing law and order, the new political landscape with a fresh interim prime minister, and the vital role of rebel groups in restoring services. Sinjab also reflects on historical parallels with Iraq, emphasizing the need for inclusivity to achieve lasting peace.
Syria's interim government is working to restore essential services in Damascus while acknowledging the need for justice and accountability for past crimes.
The political turmoil in Israel surrounding Netanyahu's corruption trial highlights deep societal divisions and potential legal ramifications for his leadership.
Deep dives
Syria's Move Towards Governance
Syria's new interim government is beginning to establish essential services to ensure normality in the capital following the end of the Assad regime. An interim prime minister has been appointed along with a small cabinet to oversee the restoration of public services such as water and electricity. There's an acknowledgment of the need to address previous crimes, including a list of officials accused of torture, suggesting a potential path towards justice and rebuilding trust. While some public sector employees have been contacted to return to work, uncertainty lingers about the implementation of these plans.
Challenges of Unity Among Rebel Groups
The transition of power in Syria presents opportunities and risks as various rebel factions navigate governance in a post-Assad landscape. Despite a semblance of unity, these groups operate independently, which could lead to conflicts complicating the power structure. The UN Special Envoy emphasized the necessity for inclusive arrangements to ensure cooperation among the diverse factions in control. Analysts point to the urgent need for law and order as the newly empowered groups face the difficult task of uniting their efforts for the sake of stability.
Concerns Over Past Regime Connections
Learning from previous regime changes, experts caution that the removal of Assad could lead to a chaotic power struggle similar to that of Iraq post-Saddam Hussein. The accidental collapse of state structure during prior transitions serves as a reminder of the potential violence that could erupt. Emma Sky emphasizes the importance of engaging with the emerging powers rather than isolating them, given the risks of ISIS re-emerging in the region. The new leadership must navigate these historical lessons to avoid repeating past mistakes that led to widespread instability.
Israeli Political Landscape Amid Trials
The Israeli political scene is marked by Prime Minister Netanyahu's ongoing corruption trial, as he faces serious charges including bribery and fraud. This marks a historic moment as he becomes the first incumbent prime minister to testify in court, claiming the allegations are part of a politically motivated 'witch hunt.' The trial has resulted in a profound division within Israeli society, amplifying tensions between supporters and opposition parties. Depending on the trial's outcome, Netanyahu could face significant legal consequences, including potential prison time for bribery charges.
Life in Dasmascus is returning to normal despite Israeli bombing. Also: Netanyahu appears in court on corruption charges and a judge throws a spanner in the works for the Murdoch succession plans.
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