Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad recently broke his silence following the collapse of his regime amid significant military pressure from rebel forces. Speaking from Moscow, where he sought refuge, Assad asserted he had been evacuated by Russian military rather than having fled from his country as often reported.
On December 8, as rebel groups advanced rapidly through Damascus, which included forces from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Assad claimed he did not plan to abandon the fight for his country. "I did not think about stepping down or seeking refuge," he stated, emphasizing his resolve to carry out his duties until the pressure became overwhelming.
Assad painted a desperate picture of the circumstances leading to his evacuation. According to his account, he remained dedicated to defending Syria from what he labeled as "terrorist onslaughts" until the situation grew untenable. This marked his first public comments since his removal, during which he defended his record throughout the brutal civil war, downplaying his regime's role in Syria's suffering.
His narrative indicated he stayed in Damascus until December 8 but was eventually forced to relocate to Latakia, where Russian military installations were located. "The deteriorated situation, including drone attacks on the Russian base, necessitated my evacuation," he explained. Upon arrival at the Hmeimim base, he noted how the last positions of his military forces had fallen, prompting Russian officials to arrange for his departure to safety.
Assad, who ruled Syria for over 50 years under the shadow of his father's regime, expressed indignation over the circumstances of his exit. He claimed he had no intention of leaving, insisting, "At no point during these events did I even think of stepping down or seeking refuge, nor was such proposal made by any individual or party." This statement has raised eyebrows, drawing criticism for its unwillingness to accept accountability for the tumultuous events leading to the civil war.
Critics, including journalists and political analysts, have swiftly condemned his comments as propagandistic. Reactions captured online have highlighted his claim to be absolving himself of the nation's turmoil, with one commentator quipping, "It was everyone’s fault but mine." Others echoed sentiments about the absence of apologies or acknowledgment of responsibility stemming from Syria's humanitarian crisis.
At the same time, Assad's remarks come as Ahmed al-Shara, leader of the coalition’s new leadership, urged international support from the United States and others to lift economic sanctions imposed on Syria. They highlight the new regime's desire to stabilize and rebuild post-Assad Syria.
The political ramifications following Assad's exit are still unrolling, with Russia repositioning its forces and reassessing its role within Syria. Many speculate on what this means for the geopolitical balance and regional stability. Prior to Assad's evacuation, Russia had been one of his staunchest allies, frequently providing military support to his regime amid severe domestic and international pressure.
Now, as foreign powers maneuver within Syria’s borders, seeking advantages post-Assad, the situation remains volatile. The United States has stepped up operations against remaining Islamic State forces, and Turkey continues to assert its interests, particularly against Kurdish entities. Israel remains active, targeting military positions now deemed strategic threats.
Assad’s statement depicts his narrative of victimhood, portraying himself as confronting terrorism for the last fourteen years, as he mentioned the heavy toll of the civil war, estimated to have resulted in over 500,000 deaths and significant displacements among Syria's populace.
From his assertions, he sought to present himself as devoted leader acting only to safeguard the Syrian state, insisting he led efforts to protect institutions and uphold choices made by the population. His statement serves as both a reflection on his political survival and intention to maintain any semblance of legitimacy during what has become historic upheaval.
With the world watching, the reactions to Assad's narrative will likely shape perceptions of the former government mechanism and its ultimate failure after years of conflict. The shifting political dynamics point to potential challenges as the new leadership endeavors to restore stability and recover from the devastation wrought over more than a decade of civil war.
While al-Assad attempts to redefine his role and justify actions taken during his regime, the future of Syria remains uncertain. With new leaders seeking to fill the vacuum his government once occupied, the volatility presents risks not only for Syrian citizens but for regional peace as the remnants of conflict continue to hover above.
