Bashar al-Assad’s First Statement After Reported Escape: “Never Sought Office for Personal Gain, the Country is Now in Terrorists’ Hands”
Web Desk: Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has allegedly issued his first statement following the collapse of his government and his reported departure from the country.
According to an international news agency, the statement was shared through the official Telegram account of the Syrian presidential office. In the message, Assad claimed he was present in Syria until the night of December 8.
Assad stated that as rebel forces advanced, he relocated to the Russian-controlled Hmeimim airbase in Latakia for safety. Due to drone attacks targeting the airbase, he said he was later transferred to Russia.
In his remarks, Assad acknowledged that the country is now in the hands of terrorists. He emphasized that he had never sought political office for personal gain and maintained his commitment to protecting the state and its institutions until the very end.
“When the state falls into the hands of terrorists and loses its ability to play a meaningful role, holding onto any position becomes meaningless,” Assad said, adding that he had always believed in the people’s capacity to defend their choices.
The former president concluded by asserting that a position of power loses its purpose when it no longer serves the people or safeguards the nation.
This statement marks Assad’s first public communication following reports of his escape from Syria amid escalating conflict and unrest.