Pope Francis urges Syrian unity amid post-Assad turmoil

During a weekly audience in Vatican City, Pope Francis shared his concern for the current situation in Syria, expressing hope that "a political solution may be reached that, without further conflicts or divisions, responsibly promotes the stability and unity of the country."

In his first public statements on Syria since the end of al-Assad's rule, the Pope also called on the country's diverse religious groups to "may walk together in friendship and mutual respect for the good of the nation."

Pope Francis expressed a heartfelt hope for the Syrian people, asking for the Virgin Mary's intercession "may live in peace and security in their beloved land." He also called for unity among different religions, emphasizing the importance of friendship and mutual respect to benefit a nation that has endured the hardships of war for many years.

Muslims make up about 90 per cent of Syria's population. Christians have a historical presence in the country but constitute a small minority. The Vatican estimates that among the population of about 25 million people, there are about 300,000 Catholics.

Syrian rebels announced on Sunday the liberation of Damascus and the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad after his 24-year rule. The rebels also announced the release of all prisoners who were captured even for the slightest opposition to the dictator's authority.

The action involved two organizations: HTS, or Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an Islamist group led by Abu Muhammad al-Julani, and the Syrian National Army.

Abu Muhammad al-Julani previously fought in the ranks of Al-Qaeda, now renounces radicalism, declares a departure from jihadism, and respect for minority rights. HTS is still classified as a terrorist group by the US, EU, and Turkey.