Syria’s new 210-seat parliament convenes for first time in Damascus
What’s new: Lawmakers elected Abdul Halim al-Awak as speaker as the chamber begins a 30-month term under interim rules.
Syria’s new parliament met for the first time in Damascus on July 12, marking a step in the country’s political transition 19 months after rebels led by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa toppled Bashar al-Assad. The 210-seat chamber will serve a 30-month term with limited powers until a permanent constitution is adopted and elections are organized. Two-thirds of lawmakers were chosen through regional electoral colleges in 2025, while al-Sharaa appointed the remaining third on July 1. In its opening session, legislators elected Abdul Halim al-Awak as speaker. The assembly can propose and approve laws, but the interim framework does not require the government to win a parliamentary vote of confidence.