Syrians have taken to the streets to celebrate the first anniversary of the removal of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad amid renewed optimism that conditions will continue to improve as the country recovers from the effects of nearly 14 years of war.Fireworks rang out, and flags dotted cities across the country on Monday, marking one year since the al-Assad dynasty fell after a lightning 11-day offensive by opposition forces ended its 53-year rule.Recommended Stories list of 4 itemsend of listPresident Ahmed al-Sharaa, speaking at a press conference in Damascus, paid tribute to those who fought to overthrow the former regime.“To those who are now present here in the heart of history, you are shaping a story of intrepidness and bravery,” he said.“Today we mark one year of liberating Syria from the shackles of tyranny and dictatorship, restoring the country once again to greatness. Stand with your heads held high. We had lost our homeland for more than five decades, during which this gang attempted to fleece it of its civilisation, history and traditions.”Earlier, dressed in military uniform, al-Sharaa performed the dawn prayer at the Umayyad Mosque to commemorate the anniversary. “No one will stand in our way, no matter how big or powerful they are,” he said.“We will face all challenges, God willing. From its north to its south, from its east to its west, we will rebuild a strong Syria worthy of its present and its past, a Syria that supports the oppressed and establishes justice among the people.”Military parades organised by the Ministry of Defence took place in Damascus and across several provinces, including in Hama, Homs and Deir Az Zor.‘Only a part of the dream came true’Over the last year, …
