Christians in Damascus celebrate Christmas amid hopes for new era in Syria

By Enes Canli and Zeynep Katre Oran

DAMASCUS (AA) - After the fall of Syria’s long-standing Baath regime, the country’s Christian community is embracing a new sense of hope as it prepares for Christmas in the capital Damascus.

Many are optimistic about a future marked by greater freedom of expression, stronger social cohesion, and inclusivity.

With the end of the 61-year regime, life in Syria is gradually returning to normal. In Damascus, Christians have adorned streets with festive decorations to mark the upcoming holiday on Dec. 25.

Markets in the city center, illuminated with Christmas lights and trees, are bustling with activities for people of all ages. Visitors can be seen taking cheerful photos by the decorations, smiling and celebrating the season.

At the markets, locals shop from stalls offering a variety of goods while enjoying concerts that blend traditional Syrian music with revolutionary anthems. Prominently displayed throughout the area are the three-starred flags of "Free Syria," symbolizing the nation’s new era.

Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s leader for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia after anti-regime groups took control of Damascus on Dec. 8, ending the Baath Party regime, which had been in power since 1963.

The takeover came after Hayat Tahrir al-Sham fighters captured key cities in a lightning offensive that lasted less than two weeks.

- New chapter for Syrians

Jessica Al Huri, a 26-year-old Damascus resident, expressed her optimism about the post-regime era in an interview with Anadolu.

Al Huri said daily life has improved significantly, with people now able to attend carnivals and visit Christmas markets without fear. She praised the groups that toppled the regime for showing respect to all segments of society.

“There is definitely a difference in terms of people being able to speak and express their ideas compared to before Dec. 8,” Al Huri said.

She rejected claims that freedoms have been curtailed, adding that such restrictions were felt more strongly during the regime’s rule.

Despite the challenges of the past, Al Huri said Syrians are determined to rebuild their country.

“I’m hopeful now. Even if we start from scratch, we can rebuild our country. As a society, we can do this. We all love our country. We just wanted to live. As educated and conscious people, it’s our turn to rebuild Syria after Dec. 8,” she said.

Sami Ajnun, another Damascus resident, said the transition has brought significant improvements. “It’s better for everyone. Security has been established, and people are happy. Relations have been formed with Türkiye and European countries,” he said.

Ajnun dismissed Western concerns that Syria would impose religious laws or force citizens into specific lifestyles. “There is no sign that Sharia will be implemented in the country,” he said.

He highlighted the respect among different segments of Syrian society, emphasizing that coexistence is possible. “We’ve escaped the oppressive situation we were in. There was significant pressure. Thankfully, we are happy now,” he said.

*Writing by Seda Sevencan​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ in Istanbul