Ousted Syrian President Bashar Assad made his first public statement since being overthrown by jihadi-led insurgent groups a week ago. Assad revealed that he left Damascus on December 8, following an insurgent attack on the capital. He departed in coordination with Russian allies to the Hmeimim air base in Latakia, with plans to continue fighting.
After the Russian base faced drone attacks, Assad was evacuated to Russia on the night of December 8. He clarified that his departure was not part of a premeditated plan and emphasized his commitment to fighting against the insurgent forces.
The new transitional government formed by former insurgents declared the end of the Assad regime with no possibility of return. They urged Russia to reconsider its presence in Syria and expressed a desire to build positive relations with the international community.
The new Syrian leadership has engaged in political discussions with the U.S., including efforts to repatriate American citizens previously detained in Syria. They also called for a reevaluation of the terrorist designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the main rebel group.
Regarding security cooperation, the new government stated that IS no longer poses a significant threat in Syria. They assured protection of Kurdish rights while emphasizing the importance of maintaining Damascus' control over all Syrian territories.
Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes targeted missile warehouses on the Syrian coast, marking the most intense strikes in the region since 2012. Israel has been conducting military operations in Syria following Assad's downfall, leading to concerns about potential territorial disputes and violations of ceasefire agreements.
