- In a social media post, Assad disclosed his intention to continue fighting rebel forces until evacuated by Russia
- Assad expressed hope that Syria will “once again be free and independent.”
- Russian officials later confirmed Assad’s departure after negotiations with rebel groups
LONDON, Dec 16 (Sky News):Former Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad has issued his first statement since the fall of his regime. In a social media post, Assad revealed that he had intended to continue battling rebel forces before being evacuated by Russia.
These comments, Assad’s first public remarks since his regime was toppled more than a week ago, were shared on the Syrian presidency’s Telegram channel. In the statement, he recounted leaving Damascus for Russia on 8 December, “a day after the fall” of the city. Assad asserted, “At no point during these events did I consider stepping down or seeking refuge. The only course of action was to continue fighting against the terrorist onslaught.”
Towards the end of his statement, Assad expressed hope that “Syria will once again be free and independent.” His departure from the Syrian capital came after a rapid offensive by anti-regime forces, bringing his 24-year rule to a dramatic end.
Initially, the whereabouts of Assad, his wife Asma, and their three children were unknown. However, it was later reported by Russian officials that Assad had left Syria following negotiations with rebel groups.
