Damascus: Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa extended New Year's greetings to the Syrian people early Thursday, marking the start of 2026 with a message of unity and hope. In a post on the US social media company X's platform, Sharaa stated that with the start of the new year, they look "with hope and optimism" toward a future where Syria remains united, strong, and stable, and where Syrians work together in reconstruction and development efforts.

According to Anadolu Agency, Sharaa emphasized the goal of spreading peace, harmony, and prosperity across all parts of the country. He conveyed his wishes for a happy new year to both the people and the nation of Syria.

A new transitional administration led by Sharaa was established in January following the departure of Bashar al-Assad, Syria's leader for nearly 25 years, who fled to Russia. This marked the end of the Baath Party regime, which had been in power since 1963.