Exiled Syrians in Germany rejoiced on Sunday at the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, expressing hope and optimism for the future of their homeland. As news of the rapid changes in Syria unfolded, a sense of euphoria swept through the Syrian community in Germany.
Human rights lawyer Michal Shammas took to social media to urge his fellow Syrians to come together in rebuilding their country. “Let us reconstruct our Syria together,” he wrote on his Facebook page, encapsulating the spirit of unity and determination among the exiled Syrians.
Hassan al-Aswad, a member of the Syrian Democratic Alliance, called for forgiveness towards those who had been part of the old regime but had not committed severe crimes. In a display of compassion and resilience, he emphasized the importance of reconciliation and moving forward as a nation.
A lawyer hailing from Daraa, a city in south-western Syria, now residing in Hanover, shared a video praising the restraint shown by the rebels in not destroying state infrastructure during their advancement towards Damascus. In a poignant moment, he extended forgiveness to those who had occupied his home, emphasizing the power of forgiveness and the desire for peace.
Al-Aswad highlighted the challenges that lay ahead for Syrians, acknowledging the complexity of transitioning from war to peace. He emphasized the need for fair trials for those responsible for crimes, underscoring a commitment to justice that had been lacking in the past.
Since the regime’s downfall, videos have emerged showing the release of political prisoners, including those detained during the rule of Bashar’s father, Hafez al-Assad. These glimpses of liberation have brought a sense of hope and justice to many Syrians who have suffered under the oppressive regime.
In Berlin, a group gathered in the Neukölln district to celebrate the change of power in Syria, waving flags emblazoned with the words “Free Syria.” Despite being described as a “relatively small group” by authorities, the demonstration symbolized the solidarity and support for the Syrian cause among the diaspora community in Germany.
The peaceful demonstration followed a motorcade through Neukölln the previous evening, where hundreds of Syrians expressed their opposition to extremism and their hopes for a democratic future in Syria. The district, known for its diverse immigrant population, has become a hub for activism and advocacy for various causes, including recent protests against Israeli actions in Gaza.
As Syrians in Germany and around the world continue to witness the unfolding developments in their homeland, there is a palpable sense of optimism and resilience among the exiled community. The path to rebuilding Syria will be fraught with challenges, but the unity and determination displayed by Syrians both in Syria and abroad offer a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.
