First Friday prayers held in Syria since fall of al-Assad

Syrians gathered in the capital city of Damascus for the first Friday prayers since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s rule nearly a week ago.

The leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the rebel group that captured the capital, joined the prayers and urged people to celebrate peacefully.

Ahmad al-Sharaa, who was previously known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, encouraged Syrians to "head to the squares to show their happiness without firing bullets or causing fear." He added, "After this, we will work to rebuild the country and, as I said before, achieve victory with God’s help."

Thousands are expected to take to the streets following prayers to celebrate the end of Al-Assad’s rule.

Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) countries will hold a virtual meeting on Friday to discuss the political transition in Syria following the recent developments.

In a statement released on Thursday, the G7 expressed readiness to support a transition that ensures "credible, inclusive, and non-sectarian governance."

The group urged Syria’s new government to uphold the "rule of law, universal human rights — including women’s rights — and the protection of all Syrians, including religious and ethnic minorities." They also emphasised the need for "transparency and accountability," pledging to fully back a government that adheres to these principles.

Now in control of Damascus, HTS is attempting to soften its image and build ties with Western nations. HTS has its roots in Syria’s al-Qaeda branch but has since sought to moderate its rhetoric.

Obaida Arnaout, a spokesperson for Syria’s interim government, promised on Thursday to institute the "rule of law" and respect "religious and cultural diversity in Syria."

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held