Syria has witnessed political and social changes with the rise of Ahmad Shar'aa, but life for many citizens remains harder than before. The protests that erupted last month in the squares and streets of the country reflect the anger and dissatisfaction of the people over the renewed increase in fuel prices. This discontent is the largest display since Shar'aa came to power.
Public Discontent with Living Conditions
People set tires on fire and blocked roads during these protests. One protester told a television network that he still supports the authorities, but his living conditions have deteriorated to the point where he can no longer afford to buy bread. Other protesters also spoke about their daily fears and expressed that they no longer know what new decision will come from the government each day.
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Rising prices, especially for essential goods, have intensified the cost-of-living crisis. While Syrians celebrated the fall of Bashar al-Assad and new freedoms, they may have unrealistically hoped that conditions would improve quickly. However, economic realities show that the living situation for many has worsened.
Daily Life in the Shadow of Economic Crisis
In one of the suburbs of Damascus, Fatima Saleh Eid, 50, works as a cleaner to support her family's expenses. She told reporters, "We eat much less now. We can no longer buy chicken or meat." Next to her, young men have gathered in the streets hoping to find daily work, but many remain unsuccessful.
The government has raised public sector wages to alleviate economic pressures, but this increase is negligible against rising prices. Marwan Bashour, a 68-year-old retiree, with a salary of $90 a month, is forced to sell household items to meet his daily needs and those of his family. He says, "Sometimes I borrow money, sometimes I sell household items."
Nabil al-Rahmin, 63, also spoke about his harsh living conditions, stating that his family only eats one meal a day. He and others express dissatisfaction with rising costs and their inability to meet basic needs. Despite all these problems, Ahmad Shar'aa faces significant economic challenges, and it seems that real economic improvement remains out of reach.
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