"As the new year approaches, residents of Damascus have voiced hopes for improved living conditions and greater security in 2026, following a tense period marked by episodes of deadly sectarian violence across Syria. Footage shows Christmas decorations illuminating streets as people walk past shops in a city, still grappling with economic strain and insecurity. George Najma, a Damascus resident, said daily life remains difficult. “The living conditions are difficult, and prices are high. There is very little work, life is hard, and overall, everything is expensive,” said George Najma, a Damascus resident. Another local, Rayen Al-Zahlawi, expressed hope that the new year would bring change. “I wish goodness for the whole world, and I hope Syria returns to how it was, or even better, and that these bad conditions disappear from our lives,” he said. Others criticised the pace of improvements under the current authorities. Alaa Qabaqibi said public frustration was growing. “The government says it needs time, and that is true, but what has happened so far has caused public frustration, shortages of water and electricity, and there are many complaints about this,” he said. In December 2024, Syria’s transitional authorities took power in Damascus, later appointing Ahmad al-Sharaa as transitional leader, after he pledged to form an 'inclusive government'. However, media reports have documented violations against civilians from Druze, Alawite, Christian and other minority communities. These developments have contributed to rising tensions, including calls for secession in Suwayda Governorate. Meanwhile, the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces have yet to be integrated into the newly formed Syrian army as of the time of publication."