Syria: Sharaa calls for ‘new chapter’ in Syria’s history as new parliament convenes.

SHOTLIST: DAMASCUS, SYRIA (JULY 12, 2026) 1. VARIOUS OF MEMBERS OF SYRIAN PARLIAMENT ARRIVING TO PARLIAMENT BUILDING TO ATTEND ITS FIRST SESSION 2. VARIOUS OF PRESIDENT AHMED AL-SHARAA ADDRESSING PARLIAMENT 3. VARIOUS OF SPEECHES DELIVERED DURING FIRST SESSION 4. VARIOUS OF PARLIAMENT MEMBERS CASTING THEIR VOTES TO ELECT ASSEMBLY SPEAKER, TWO DEPUTIES, AND BUREAUDAMASCUS, SYRIA - JULY 12: Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa called for “a new chapter in the country’s history,” as the newly elected parliament held its first session on Sunday. "Today, Syria is writing a new chapter in its history -- one that reflects its civilization, values and heritage,” he said in an address to the People’s Assembly as cited by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA). "Together, let us build the history of a modern Syria," he added. He urged lawmakers to make the parliament "a model of responsibility and competence," while promoting dialogue, the rule of law and respect for state institutions.