Ousted Syrian Leader Bashar Al Assad Issues First Statement Since Fall of Regime

By Evans Momodu
1 minute read


Former Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad has issued his first public statement following the collapse of his regime after a 24-year rule.

Speaking via the Syrian presidency's Telegram channel, Assad revealed details of his departure from Damascus and his intentions during the final days of his reign.

Assad confirmed he was evacuated from Damascus by Russian forces on 8 December, a day after the capital fell to anti-regime forces.

He emphasized that he never considered resigning or seeking asylum, asserting that his plan was to continue fighting what he described as a "terrorist onslaught."

The statement concluded with a call for Syria to "once again be free and independent," signaling his continued alignment with the rhetoric of resistance despite his ousting.

Assad's regime fell after a rapid and decisive offensive by opposition forces, culminating in the capture of Damascus last week.

This marked the end of his prolonged and controversial rule, which began in 2000 after succeeding his father, Hafez al-Assad.

Following the regime's collapse, the whereabouts of Assad, his wife Asma, and their three children were unclear until Russia confirmed his evacuation after negotiations with rebel factions.

Assad's ousting represents a dramatic shift in the Syrian conflict, which has ravaged the country for over a decade.

As opposition forces consolidate control, questions remain over the future governance of Syria and the role of international powers, including Russia and Iran, in shaping the post-Assad era.
Source: Sky news