Syria has unveiled a new national emblem, replacing decades-old symbols tied to the Assad regime with a golden eagle meant to represent a united and forward-looking nation. The move is a landmark step in the country's transition following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s rule.

New Symbol, New Syria

The golden eagle, topped with three stars symbolizing the people’s liberation, now stands as the official state emblem. Its five tail feathers represent Syria’s main geographical regions, while 14 wing feathers stand for each of the country’s provinces, said to reflect the "story of resilience over 14 years of revolution."

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Damascus, President Ahmed al-Sharaa called the emblem “a reflection of a united, indivisible Syria.” He added, “It draws inspiration from the golden eagle – symbolizing strength, determination, speed, precision, and innovation.”

End of the Assad Era

The announcement came with both symbolic and practical significance. National ID cards and passports will be updated to feature the new identity, marking a clear break from the Baathist state under Bashar al-Assad, who fled to Russia in December 2024.

Al-Sharaa, who assumed power in January, emphasized Syria’s return to dignity and sovereignty. “Your downfall has ended, your revival has begun,” he declared, addressing the Syrian people.

Diplomatic Rebranding

Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said the rebranding reflects a deliberate departure from the Assad regime’s ideology-driven policies. “We’ve met world leaders who pledged to support Syrians in rebuilding their country,” he said, noting that Syria is “defining its future on its own terms.”

He called the emblem’s launch “a cultural death” for the previous regime’s legacy of “oppression and corruption masked by empty slogans.”

Celebrations Nationwide

Public celebrations erupted across Syria in Umayyad Square, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and other iconic locations in Damascus, Aleppo, Latakia, Idlib, and Deir ez-Zor. Citizens received text messages from telecom operators hailing the new emblem as “a renewed emblem of determination and emancipation in the sky of freedom.”