“I did not want to leave Syria, I left out of compulsion”

The Assad family’s rule over Syria, which lasted for more than 50 years, has come to an end. The country’s former President Bashar al-Assad, who was recently ousted from power, has broken his silence for the first time. He clarified in his statement that his escape from Syria was not part of any plan, but it was a step taken out of compulsion.

Ousted from power: Terrorists took over

Rebel groups in power in Syria Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) Captured it on 8 December after 11 days of fighting.

• End of 10 year old war: The conflict between Assad and HTS was going on since 2011. Previously, Assad had forced the rebels to retreat with the help of Russia and Iran, but this time HTS completely defeated them.
• Compulsion to leave Damascus: On the evening of December 8, HTS fighters approached the presidential palace in Damascus, after which Assad was safely taken out of Russia’s Khmeimim base.

Assad’s statement: “I never coveted power”

Assad, who has taken refuge in Russia, issued a statement on his official Telegram channel.

• He said, “I never coveted power for personal gain. I have always been a protector of Syria.”
• Trust in the Syrian people: Assad said he has unwavering faith in the faith and willpower of the Syrian people. He also said that “When the country falls into the hands of terrorism, power has no meaning.”

“I wanted to fight terrorists”

Referring to his compulsion to force his way out of Syria, Assad said:

• “Leaving Syria was not my option. I wanted to fight the terrorists till the last moment.”
• He told that due to continuous drone attacks, Russia expelled him from the country.

Assad’s hope for the future of Syria

This is Assad’s first public statement after being ousted from power, in which he expressed his hope for the future of Syria.

• “Despite all this, my deep feelings for Syria and its people have not diminished.”
• Assad said he is living with the belief that one day “Syria will be free again.”

Increasing dominance of HTS

• HTS journey: Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, considered a faction of al-Qaeda, gradually gained control of large parts of Syria.
• International concern: After HTS came to power, the influence of terrorists on Syria has increased, making the challenge for the international community more serious.

Assad and Russia alliance

Assad had received the support of Russia and Iran since 2011, thanks to which he could keep the rebels under control for a long time.

• With Russia: This time too Assad was taken safely to Russia.
• New Challenges: However, now Assad’s influence in Syria has completely ended.