Syria's Transitional President Unveils New Cabinet as Kurdish Rejection Highlights Unity Challenges

Ahmed al-Scharaa's government aims to rebuild Syria but faces criticism over centralization of power and lack of inclusivity.

Ahmed al-Scharaa has announced a 22-member cabinet to lead Syria's five-year transitional period following Bashar al-Assad's ousting in December 2024.
The new government includes Hind Kabawat, a Christian woman and former opposition figure, as Minister for Social Affairs and Labor, marking a symbolic step toward inclusivity.
Raed al-Saleh, head of the White Helmets, has been appointed Minister for Emergency and Disaster Management, highlighting civil society representation.
Key positions, such as foreign affairs and defense, remain under the control of al-Scharaa's close allies, raising concerns about centralized power under the new transitional constitution.
The Kurdish minority in northeastern Syria has rejected the government, citing exclusion and fears of authoritarianism, complicating national unity and international support efforts.