For Issam Kourbaj, a 61-year-old Syrian artist based in the UK for over 30 years, the dream of returning to a new Syria feels closer than ever. Speaking to the BBC, Kourbaj reflected on the emotional and uncertain moment following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
“I’ve dreamed of visiting a new place, a new Syria,” he said. Yet, despite the relief, Kourbaj remains cautious about what the future holds. “This moment has been long awaited, but I am in two minds—relieved yet uncertain because no one knows what’s next.”
The Syrian diaspora in the UK has been celebrating Assad’s ousting, marked by gatherings in cities like Belfast, Manchester, and London. Assad reportedly fled to Moscow after a rapid rebel offensive toppled his government, leading to widespread jubilation among Syrians who have endured years of conflict.
Years of Silence and Fear
For decades, Kourbaj and his family in Syria communicated using cryptic phone calls filled with “codes” to avoid putting his relatives in danger. “I had to decipher what they meant while being cautious, fearing how the regime might retaliate,” he explained.
Kourbaj, whose art responding to Syria’s conflict is part of the British Museum’s collection, is now reflecting on the past while cautiously looking to the future.
His niece, Madlen Kourbaj, an English teacher in Sweida, southern Syria, shared the mixed emotions felt by many. “We were happy yesterday because he’s [Assad] gone, but we’re still in shock. After 13 years of fighting for justice, it all happened so fast. We’re happy, scared, and uncertain all at once.”
Voices of the Syrian Diaspora
For Rama Terkmani, a 20-year-old Syrian medical student in Liverpool, Assad’s fall brought hope but also unease. “Finally, my country is free. But my family and I aren’t ready to go back yet. We don’t know what’s next.”
Terkmani shared the stories of loved ones who suffered under Assad’s rule. Her brother was imprisoned from age 16 to 20 before moving to the UK, and her 14-year-old cousin lost both parents in Syrian prisons. “Now, my uncle in Syria can speak freely for the first time,” she said.
Similarly, Dr. Rim Turkmani, director of the Syria Conflict Research Programme at the London School of Economics, dreams of returning to her homeland after 14 years of separation from her family. “To see my family, the town I grew up in, and to take my children back to see where I come from means the world to me,” she said.
However, Turkmani acknowledged the challenges ahead. “It’s unclear how we’ll get there. The airport is still closed, travel through Lebanon is difficult, and my Syrian passport expired years ago. Can I use a Western passport? Will I need a visa? These are just some of the questions.”
Syrians Returning Home
Thousands of Syrians began the journey back to their homeland on Sunday, with large queues forming at the Lebanese border. Images showed people with bags and suitcases waiting to return to their roots.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees noted early signs of Syrians returning. Dr. Turkmani stressed that young men, who often fled to avoid conscription, would play a key role in rebuilding Syria. “We need jobs and a functioning economy for returning families to rebuild their homes and lives. This is essential for Syria’s future prosperity.”
Celebrations Across the UK
In Belfast, Syrians like Renad Soda, who fled nine years ago, celebrated the momentous news. “I couldn’t sleep all night watching the news. The feeling is unbelievable,” Soda said.
Mazen Haseno, who organized a demonstration in Belfast, described the overwhelming emotions. “We’re over the moon. After 14 years, we finally have hope for a democratic Syria.” Haseno, who was imprisoned and tortured by the Assad regime for over two years, plans to return to Syria when it is safe.
As Syrians across the UK rejoice, many remain cautious about the path ahead. While Assad’s fall marks a new chapter, questions about security, governance, and rebuilding linger.
