Bashar al-Assad, the former President of Syria, has broken his silence with a new statement following his recent departure from Syria.
In a rare public address from Moscow, where he sought refuge after being forced out by rebel groups, Assad expressed his unwavering stance on not intending to step down.
He clarified that he remained in Damascus until the last possible moment before fleeing, amid mounting pressure from Islamist forces.
Assad’s Departure and Claims of Misinformation
Speaking through the Syrian Presidential Telegram channel, Assad strongly denied claims suggesting that his departure from Syria was planned or happened during the final stages of battle.
He stated that he remained in Damascus, fulfilling his duties, until the early hours of December 8, 2024.
Assad also rejected any suggestion that he had considered fleeing or stepping down, emphasizing that his only option was to continue resisting the terrorist forces attacking the country.
Forced Evacuation and Family Loyalty
Assad recounted how his departure was triggered by an attack on the Hmeimim air base, which led to an evacuation order from Moscow.
He presented himself as a devoted leader who remained by his people’s side throughout the war, despite the criticism over his forces’ involvement in numerous deaths, with backing from Russia, Hezbollah, and Iran.
He asserted that his role was never about personal gain but about safeguarding Syria’s future.
The Final Flight to Russia
Assad’s evacuation involved a complex flight strategy, where his plane initially disappeared from flight tracking systems after taking off from Damascus.
It then reappeared at Russia’s Hmeimim air base, where Assad transferred to a Russian military jet for his final journey to Moscow.
This departure marked the end of his long rule in Syria.
The Rise of HTS and the New Transitional Government
As Assad seeks refuge in Moscow, the Islamist rebel group HTS has taken steps to consolidate control over Syria.
Last week, HTS announced the appointment of Mohammad al-Bashir as the interim Prime Minister of a transitional government.
The new government aims to establish stability in Syria, particularly in the northwest region of Idlib.
However, the situation is far from stable elsewhere, with reports of rising tensions and new conflicts brewing in northern Syria.
The Escalating Tensions in Syria
While HTS tries to assert control, violence continues to escalate.
Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) forces have clashed with Kurdish groups, with disturbing reports of abuses and executions.
Meanwhile, Israel has intensified airstrikes targeting military infrastructure left behind by Assad’s forces.
Additionally, ISIS fighters are reportedly executing fleeing Syrian soldiers in the Homs desert.
Russia’s Role and Future in Syria
Russia, which played a crucial role in propelling Assad’s regime to power during the conflict, has ensured his safe evacuation.
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov confirmed that Assad was transported out of Syria securely, emphasizing Russia’s responsibility in such extraordinary situations.
Russia’s continued involvement in Syria, including its military presence at key air and naval bases, suggests that it will remain a key player in the region.
However, the ongoing dialogue with HTS and other rebel groups hints at further complexities ahead for the region’s future stability.
What Comes Next?
As the situation in Syria continues to unfold, the question remains: what lies ahead for the country’s political landscape?
With Assad gone and HTS assuming control, the future of Syria seems uncertain, especially with escalating conflicts on the ground and international powers like Russia and Israel deeply involved.
Only time will reveal how Syria’s fractured territories will reconcile and what role foreign powers will play in shaping the country’s future.