The Syrian presidency revealed the country’s new national emblem on Thursday during a formal ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Damascus, marking what leaders described as a historic turning point after decades under Baath Party rule.

The event, accompanied by celebrations across major city squares, introduced a golden eagle replacing the previous hawk symbol. President Ahmed al-Sharaa said the new design reflects “a united, indivisible Syria,” according to state media.

“The identity we launch today reflects Syria’s new historical phase,” al-Sharaa declared. “It draws inspiration from the golden eagle – symbolizing strength, determination, speed, precision, and innovation.”

The Ministry of Information explained that the emblem’s three stars represent the people’s liberation, while its five tail feathers stand for Syria’s main geographical regions: north, east, west, south, and center. Its 14 wing feathers honor the country’s provinces, each said to tell “a story of resilience over 14 years of revolution.”

Practical changes will follow, including the replacement of national ID cards and passports to align with the new design.

In his speech, President al-Sharaa linked Syria’s current revival to its ancient roots:

“A long time ago, a tale began in a city where the first humans are said to have lived… They planted, created, and built until they gave the world its first capital – Damascus.”

He sharply criticized the previous era, calling it “the most humiliating” in the city’s history. Addressing citizens directly, he added:

“The story of Damascus continues through you. History will record that your downfall has ended, your revival has begun, your blood was not spilled in vain, your suffering was heard, your exile has ended, and your prisons have opened. Patience has delivered victory.”

Al-Sharaa concluded that the new visual identity represents “the rebuilding of the Syrian individual” and aims to restore confidence, dignity, and Syria’s rightful place on the world stage.

Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani also addressed the ceremony, emphasizing a departure from the former regime’s rhetoric:

“We’ve met world leaders who pledged to support Syrians in rebuilding their country. In every encounter, we carried a new face of Syria.”

He said Syria’s diplomatic messaging now focuses on portraying its true image and dignity rather than ideological slogans:

“Our efforts brought Syria back to the international stage – not as a delayed hope, but as a present reality.”

Al-Shaibani concluded by describing the day as “a cultural death” for the previous regime’s legacy of “oppression and corruption masked by empty slogans,” calling on Syrians to reclaim their national spirit and embrace their diversity as “the starting point for building the future.”