In Set Zaynab, a town in southern Damascus, the end of Bashar al-Assad’s regime has not brought the expected peace. Locals express cautious optimism about security improvements, yet fears from a decade of conflict still loom large. The area, once bustling with Shia pilgrims, now sees a significant decline in tourism, impacting local businesses that relied on visitors from Iraq and other Gulf states.
Despite a semblance of safety, residents remain wary. The recent assassination of a Shia cleric and ongoing threats from ISIL highlight the fragility of the situation. Many locals, while hopeful for a return to normalcy, are concerned about the younger generation who may harbor resentment due to the sectarian nature of the conflict. This generational divide poses a risk to the fragile peace that has emerged.
The new government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, faces challenges in maintaining order and addressing the needs of diverse religious groups. Security sweeps have become common as authorities seek to root out remnants of the former regime and prevent sectarian violence. However, the absence of foreign tourists continues to hinder economic recovery, with local businesses struggling to survive.
For Set Zaynab to thrive again, residents believe that a stable security environment is crucial. As they navigate the complexities of their new reality, the hope remains that improved safety will eventually lead to a resurgence in tourism and economic activity, allowing the community to heal from years of conflict.
Source: Al Jazeera
