Damascus: The Syrian presidency unveiled the country’s new national emblem Thursday during a ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Damascus, accompanied by nationwide celebrations in major city squares. The announcement came as the country transitions from decades of Baath Party rule into a new political phase.
According to Anadolu Agency, President Ahmed al-Sharaa described the new emblem as a reflection of ‘a united, indivisible Syria,’ during the event. ‘The identity we launch today reflects Syria’s new historical phase,’ al-Sharaa said. ‘It draws inspiration from the golden eagle – symbolizing strength, determination, speed, precision, and innovation.’ The golden eagle replaces the previous symbol of a hawk and is topped by three stars representing the people’s liberation, as described by the Ministry of Information.
The emblem’s design includes five tail feathers symbolizing Syria’s main geographical regions – the north, east, west, south, and center – while its 14 wing feathers represent the country’s 14 provinces, each said to tell ‘a story of resilience over 14 years of revolution.’ The adoption of the new identity will be followed by practical changes, including replacing national ID cards and passports to align with the updated design.
In a speech that blended symbolism with political messaging, al-Sharaa evoked Damascus’s ancient history. He highlighted the city’s historical significance, stating, ‘A long time ago, a tale began in a city where the first humans are said to have lived. They multiplied, and with their growing numbers came the need to build disciplined behavior. They planted, created, and built until they gave the world its first capital – Damascus.’
Addressing the nation, al-Sharaa spoke of a new chapter for Syria. ‘The story of Damascus continues through you. History will record that your downfall has ended, your revival has begun, your blood was not spilled in vain, your suffering was heard, your exile has ended, and your prisons have opened. Patience has delivered victory,’ he affirmed.
Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani also spoke at the ceremony, emphasizing a shift away from ideological slogans and aiming to restore Syria’s global standing. ‘We’ve met world leaders who pledged to support Syrians in rebuilding their country. In every encounter, we carried a new face of Syria,’ he said. ‘We worked on messaging that portrays Syria’s true image and preserves the dignity of its people. Our efforts brought Syria back to the international stage – not as a delayed hope, but as a present reality.’
Al-Shaibani stressed the importance of defining Syria’s future on its own terms, not through others’ perceptions. He concluded by declaring the moment ‘a cultural death’ for the former regime’s legacy of ‘oppression and corruption masked by empty slogans.’
Public celebrations marking the launch of the new identity were held in public squares across Damascus and other major provinces. Events took place in Umayyad Square, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Fairgrounds in the capital. Other celebrations were held in the Damascus countryside and in regional hubs, including Sheikh Daher Square in Latakia, Saadallah al-Jabiri Square in Aleppo, and Sabaa Bahrat Square in Idlib and Deir ez-Zor. Hama’s Assi Square and additional venues in western governorates also hosted public gatherings.
Mobile phone users earlier in the day received text messages from local telecom providers announcing the launch of the new national symbol, describing it as ‘a renewed emblem of determination and emancipation in the sky of freedom.’ Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s leader for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia in December, ending the Baath Party regime, which had been in power since 1963. A new transitional administration led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa was formed in Syria in January.