Damascus: One year after assuming Syria’s presidency during a transitional phase, President Ahmad al-Sharaa has overseen sweeping changes that reshaped state institutions, ended years of international isolation, and redefined Syria’s position at home and abroad. From dissolving the former regime’s power structures to restoring control over territory and energy resources, Sharaa’s first year has been marked by decisive political moves, economic reforms, and diplomatic engagement, as Syria entered what officials describe as a ‘new era’ focused on unity, reconstruction, and stability.
According to Anadolu Agency, the milestones of Sharaa’s presidency began on January 29, 2025, when the Military Operations Command announced his assumption of presidential duties following the fall of the Assad regime. On the same day, the 2012 constitution was suspended, and the former People’s Assembly was dissolved. Sharaa was tasked with forming a temporary legislative council and integrating armed factions into state institutions, effectively dismantling the former regime’s military and political structures.
In March 2025, a significant agreement was reached between the Syrian presidency and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), integrating its elements into Syria’s military and security institutions and upholding the country’s territorial unity. This was followed by the signing of a draft transitional constitutional declaration, outlining a five-year transitional period with a newly elected People’s Assembly.
February 2025 saw Sharaa’s diplomatic efforts in motion with a state visit to Ankara, discussing bilateral cooperation, economic recovery, and regional security. By May, Syria had launched major energy agreements, rehabilitating large parts of the national electricity grid and stabilizing power supplies.
In August, significant political reforms were initiated with the introduction of a temporary electoral system for the People’s Assembly and the formation of the National Transitional Justice Commission. These moves were aimed at promoting reconciliation and justice for past violations.
September marked a pivotal moment with the export of Syria’s first official crude oil shipment in over 14 years, signaling a transformation in the energy sector. Sharaa’s address to the UN General Assembly in September further solidified Syria’s commitment to regional stability and international law.
Economic and diplomatic breakthroughs continued with an official visit to the White House in November, leading to the lifting of international sanctions. This was followed by the introduction of a new national currency in December, aimed at reinforcing monetary stability.
By January 2026, Sharaa had issued decrees affirming the rights of Syrian Kurds, recognizing Kurdish as a national language, and granting citizenship to previously unregistered Kurds. Efforts to unify Syrian territory and restore state sovereignty over oil and gas fields were also announced during a visit to Moscow.
Throughout his first year, Sharaa’s administration focused on reintegrating Syria into the global system, engaging with key regional and global capitals, and participating in major multilateral forums. Officials noted that these diplomatic efforts centered on restoring sovereignty, securing international recognition, lifting sanctions, and attracting investment.
One year into Sharaa’s presidency, Syrian authorities claim the country has moved beyond the most fragile phase of transition. Entering 2026 without sanctions and with a defined political roadmap, decisions taken during his first year have positioned Syria at the threshold of a new chapter focused on reconstruction, stability, and national unity.