Damascus has fallen.

The tyrannical Assad regime, which held power for over half a century, is no more. This regime, infamous for its torture chambers that claimed tens of thousands of lives and its brutal suppression resulting in hundreds of thousands more deaths, has been ousted. After nearly fourteen years of revolution, the rebel factions, united in their cause, have achieved the unthinkable: they have finally brought an end to this dark chapter of oppression.

But what comes next?

The revolutionary factions, united on the battlefield, must now grapple with the monumental task of governing the country. Syria, a land steeped in history and a crossroads of civilizations, has long been central to the Islamic world. From its liberation by the Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) companions (ra) in the 7th century to its centuries under Islamic rule, Damascus stood as a beacon of faith, knowledge, and governance. The stakes are high: will this historic legacy guide Syria’s future, or will it be squandered?

The answer lies in unity. The factions must establish a shared vision for governance. Without agreement on the principles that will underpin the new Syria, the country risks descending into fragmentation, infighting, and renewed strife. Meanwhile, external states remain active behind the scenes, eager to exploit divisions and reassert their influence. These powers aim to maintain the status quo: a secular system that installs local puppet rulers—whether dictatorial or democratic—who prioritise foreign interests at the expense of the people’s welfare and aspirations.

One of the most visible symbols of the new system will be the flag the country chooses. Retaining the current nationalistic Syrian flag, a relic of the Arab Revolt devised by the then British Empire, would signal a continuation of the secular system. This flag, rooted in the dismantling of the Ottoman Caliphate and, with it, thirteen centuries of Islamic governance, represents a fragmented, nation-state model. It stands in stark contrast to the Islamic ideal: a unified ummah without internal borders, governed by a single authority under divine law.

The alternative is clear. To embody the aspirations of the people and align with Islamic principles, Syria must raise the flag of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This flag, a symbol of unity, justice, and faith, has the power to rally the nation and inspire solidarity across the Muslim world. By choosing this path, Syria can position itself as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for broader Islamic unity.

The choice of the flag is not merely symbolic; it is a declaration of the country’s direction. Will Syria succumb to the pressures of external powers and internal disunity, or will it seize this historic opportunity to lead with faith, purpose, and vision? The decision lies in the hands of its people and their leaders. May they choose wisely.