Syrian Leader Reflects on Iran, Russia, and the Future of Syria’s Jewish Community

Ahmad al-Sharaa, formally known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, has taken off his military uniform in favor of ordinary business suits and emerged as the de facto leader of Syria. This week, in remarks to the international media, he expressed his desire for stable and mutually respectful relations with Iran and Russia. In a separate development, the remnants of Syria’s Jewish community have been able to visit the historic Jobar synagogue, located in the Jobar suburb of Damascus.

Speaking to Saudi-owned Al Arabiya on December 29, Sharaa emphasized that Syria’s ties with these powerful countries must respect the sovereignty of each nation. He acknowledged Syria’s ongoing dependence on these relationships but also stressed that future interactions should be based on "mutual respect" and non-interference in each other's internal affairs.

Sharaa’s comments come at a crucial time as the world watches Syria’s shifting leadership following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. Russia and Iran have long been vital allies to Assad's regime, but Sharaa indicated that he expects Moscow to eventually withdraw its forces from Syria, despite recognizing their strategic importance, particularly with the key naval and airbases in Tartus and Hmeimim.

Sharaa’s remarks on Russia highlight his desire to maintain strong ties with Moscow, which has a significant military presence in Syria. He noted that Syria’s military equipment is primarily of Russian origin and that many power plants in Syria are managed by Russian experts, making Russia’s role in Syria still crucial.

Meanwhile, Sharaa also touched on Syria's political future, including the country's ongoing push for national reconciliation. He indicated that organizing elections and establishing a new constitution could take several years, perhaps up to four, underlining the complexity of rebuilding Syria’s political institutions after years of conflict.

The discussion on Syria’s future also included remarks on the possibility of improved relations with the United States under the incoming administration of President Donald Trump. Sharaa expressed hope that the Trump administration would lift sanctions on Syria, signaling a potential shift in diplomatic relations.

In a separate development, the remnants of Syria’s Jewish community have been able to visit the historic Jobar synagogue, located in the Jobar suburb of Damascus. The synagogue, one of the oldest in the world, was partially destroyed during the Syrian Civil War but is now accessible following Assad's fall. The synagogue holds significant historical and cultural value to the Syrian Jewish community, which now counts only nine members remaining in the country. Bakhour Chamntoub, head of the Syrian Jewish community, expressed sadness at the state of the synagogue during his first visit in 15 years, revealing that looters had likely stripped the building of its valuable artifacts.

Chamntoub, who stayed in Syria throughout the conflict while his siblings fled, recalled the persecution the Jewish community faced, particularly after the creation of the State of Israel. He expressed hope that the fall of Assad’s regime would lead to greater freedom for all Syrians, including religious minorities like the Jews.

As Syria undergoes a leadership transition, both the nation’s international relations and its internal religious and cultural fabric are poised for significant change. Sharaa’s comments suggest a future where Syria seeks to balance regional alliances while aspiring for greater internal unity and freedom.