Syria’s Interim Government Appoints New Defense Minister Amid Changing Power Dynamics

Syria’s interim government has named Murhaf Abu Qasra, a key leader in the Islamist militant group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), as its new defense minister, following the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Abu Qasra, known by his nom de guerre Abu Hassan 600, played a significant role in leading multiple military operations against Assad’s forces, contributing to the insurgency’s recent victory. His appointment comes after HTS led a successful offensive that resulted in the fall of Damascus earlier this month.

Abu Qasra’s elevation to defense minister represents a critical shift in Syria’s political and military landscape. Alongside him, Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Julani, the leader of HTS, engaged in discussions regarding the future military structure of Syria. These talks, attended by various armed factions, were crucial in shaping the future of the country’s military institutions after Assad’s fall.

Interim Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir, who heads the temporary transitional government, also pledged to restructure the defense ministry. The goal is to integrate former rebel groups and defectors from Assad’s forces into the country’s new military leadership. The transitional government is expected to last for three months, but its long-term plans for Syria remain uncertain.

Key Appointments and Military Strategy

Earlier on Saturday, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani was appointed as foreign minister. A 37-year-old graduate of Damascus University, Shibani previously served as the head of the political department in rebel-held Idlib. His appointment reflects the continued influence of HTS, which has now moved beyond its original base in Idlib to challenge Assad’s forces.

HTS, which had ties to al-Qaeda until severing them in 2016, led a rapid offensive starting in late November 2024. By December 8, HTS had successfully seized control of Damascus, forcing President Assad to flee. This victory marks a dramatic turning point in the Syrian conflict, with HTS asserting itself as the dominant force in the country.