Hundreds of Syrians gathered at the Turkish border this week, preparing to return home after the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. For many, this marks the end of over a decade of exile, hardships, and uncertainty. With hopes of a brighter future under new leadership, families expressed relief and optimism about rebuilding their lives in Syria.
Crossing Borders with Hope
At the Cilvegozu border gate in southern Turkey, families waited patiently to cross into Syria. Turkey, which has hosted three million Syrian refugees, extended the border’s opening hours to accommodate the growing number of returnees. A second border gate at Yayladagi in Hatay province has also been reopened to manage the increased traffic.
The number of Syrians crossing the border daily has nearly doubled since Assad was overthrown two weeks ago. Ankara, which has long supported Syrian opposition forces, predicts a significant surge in returns. Security personnel have been managing the flow of people and goods, while aid groups distributed snacks, tea, and soup to travelers.
A Long-Awaited Homecoming
For many Syrians, the return home is deeply personal. Mustafa, a father of three, fled Syria in 2012 to avoid conscription into Assad’s army. After years of low-paying Turkish jobs he is heading back to Latakia with his family, hopeful for a better life under the new government. His belongings, packed into sacks and small items like a television set, represent the struggles and dreams of many returning refugees.
Dua, another returnee, is returning to Aleppo with her children. After her husband was deported for lacking identification, she could no longer manage on her own. She spoke of reuniting her family and raising her children in her hometown, a sentiment shared by countless others crossing the border.
Rebuilding After War and Tragedy
The civil war that began in 2011 displaced millions of Syrians and left the country in ruins. With the rebel coalition led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham taking control, many believe this marks a new chapter for Syria. The interim government has promised to bring back refugees, ensure basic services, and protect citizens. However, challenges remain, including economic sanctions and a lack of foreign currency.
Haya, a mother of three, lived in a Turkish container camp following the devastating earthquakes of February 2023. These quakes killed over 50,000 Turkish and Syrian people. While she appreciated the support she received, she longed for a proper home and a fresh start in Syria.
Economic Revival in Progress
The border crossings are not just for people but also for goods essential to rebuilding Syria’s economy. Around 100 trucks waited to cross the Cilvegozu gate, carrying items like used cars and household goods. This flow of trade is expected to support reconstruction efforts and revive local markets.
The interim government has set ambitious goals, but rebuilding after years of war will take time and significant effort. Returning Syrians carry a mix of hope and uncertainty, but the new leadership’s promises provide some reassurance.
Leadership Brings New Confidence
The rebel-led government has inspired trust among many returning Syrians. Mustafa expressed his belief in the interim government, emphasizing that those now in power are familiar faces. Unlike foreign-backed leaders, the new rulers are homegrown, giving citizens a sense of connection and trust.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, once affiliated with extremist groups, has worked to distance itself from its past and present a more moderate image. Its leadership now focuses on rebuilding the nation and addressing the needs of its people.
A New Beginning for Syria
As Syrians cross back into their homeland, they are filled with hope for a better future. Families long separated by war and exile are reuniting, ready to rebuild their lives and communities. The road ahead may be challenging, but the optimism of returnees and the promises of the new government offer a glimmer of hope for a brighter Syria.
For the first time in over a decade, many Syrians are daring to dream of a stable and peaceful home. The return of refugees signals the beginning of a new era for a nation scarred by years of conflict.