Appointment of New Leaders in Syrian Security Institutions

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa issued a new package of appointments in security institutions, including several senior positions. The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported that the appointments included naming Anas al-Khatib as director of the National Security Office, in addition to his duties as Minister of Interior. The appointments also included naming Hussein al-Salama as deputy director of the National Security Office, and naming Milhem al-Shantout as deputy minister of interior for security affairs. Abdul Qader Tahhan was also appointed head of the General Intelligence Directorate.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Constitutional Court held its first meeting at its headquarters in Damascus yesterday, presided over by Dr. Issam al-Khalif, with all members appointed by Presidential Decree No. (149) of 2026 in attendance. SANA reported that the meeting focused on discussing a draft law regulating the court’s operations and jurisdiction, in preparation for finalizing its text and referring it to the relevant authorities.

President al-Sharaa had issued Presidential Decree No. (149) of 2026 on July 7, appointing Dr. Issam Khaled al-Khalif as president of the Supreme Constitutional Court. According to the decree, the court will carry out essential duties pending the issuance of the law governing its work, including overseeing the constitutionality of laws and regulations, and issuing advisory opinions on draft laws upon request by the President of the Republic, and on legislative proposals upon request by the President of the Republic or the President of the People’s Council, in addition to interpreting provisions of the Constitutional Declaration.