Thousands Gather at Damascus’ Iconic Umayyad Mosque to Celebrate a ‘New Era for Syria

In a historic moment, thousands of Syrians gathered at the renowned Umayyad Mosque in Damascus for Friday prayers, waving national flags and chanting slogans of unity. The atmosphere was electric, a testament to the monumental shift following the removal of Bashar al-Assad from power—an event that many believed was unthinkable just days ago.

The famed mosque, a symbol of the city’s heritage, became the epicenter of celebrations as men, women, and children came together on this first Friday since the regime’s fall. After prayers, the crowds spilled into Damascus’ streets and squares, their voices echoing with hope and freedom.

“We’re here to celebrate Syria’s liberation and the end of an oppressive era,” said Nour Thi al-Ghina, a 38-year-old participant. “For the first time, we can gather in such large numbers, united in joy. This is a moment we never thought we’d see.”

As the crowd chanted in unison, “One, one, one, the Syrian people is one!” the collective energy symbolized a nation ready to embrace a new chapter.

The Road to Damascus

Outside the mosque, the walls bore heart-wrenching reminders of Syria’s recent past. Photographs of individuals who vanished or were detained during Assad’s regime were displayed, with contact numbers of grieving families scrawled alongside.

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Omar al-Khaled, a 23-year-old tailor from Idlib, described his journey to the capital as a lifelong dream fulfilled. “It’s my first time in Damascus, and I can’t put my emotions into words,” he shared. “Our spirits are soaring, and we’re optimistic about Syria’s future. The suffocation of the past is over; now, the doors of opportunity have opened for us.”

The celebrations extended to nearby Umayyad Square, where a massive Syrian flag was hoisted atop its iconic sword monument. The square reverberated with chants of unity and determination.

“Let’s set aside our differences and focus on what unites us—our shared struggle against Bashar al-Assad’s tyranny,” said Amina Maarawi, a 42-year-old Muslim preacher. Her words captured the sentiment of a people yearning for solidarity.

For Mohammed al-Saad, 32, the day marked the end of a long wait. “For 13 years, we’ve hoped for this moment,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “Now, it’s time to rebuild and move forward together.”

The gatherings in Damascus symbolized a new beginning, as Syrians embraced the chance to forge a future rooted in unity, hope, and freedom.