Flag of Syria
Overview
| Country | Syria |
| Adopted | 1980 |
| Aspect ratio | 2:3 |
| Colors | |
| Elements | Stars, horizontal stripes |
Description
Syria's flag features three horizontal bands of equal width, colored red, white, and black from top to bottom. Two five-pointed green stars are centered horizontally within the white band. The overall aspect ratio of the flag is 2:3.
Symbolism
Red is said to symbolize the blood shed for freedom, while white represents a bright and peaceful future. Black is a reminder of Syria's oppressed past. The two green stars originally represented Syria and Egypt as the constituent nations of the United Arab Republic and are now interpreted as symbolizing unity and hope.
History
The current flag was officially adopted on March 29, 1980, representing a return to the flag used by Syria between 1958 and 1961 during its union with Egypt in the United Arab Republic. Prior to 1958, and again between 1961 and 1963, Syria employed a different flag. This 1980 adoption occurred during the presidency of Hafez al-Assad.
