The office of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad issued a statement on Saturday, affirming that he remains in the capital, Damascus, and continues to carry out his duties.
Bashar al-Assad © X
The office of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad issued a statement on Saturday, affirming that he remains in the capital, Damascus, and continues to carry out his duties.
This announcement comes in response to claims by rebel factions that they have initiated military operations near the city in preparation for an assault.
Despite the statement, reports suggest that preparations are underway for President Assad's potential evacuation should rebel forces take control of the capital. Two options are reportedly being considered for his exile: Iran or Moscow.
While Iran has been a staunch ally of the Syrian regime throughout the conflict, Russia, another critical supporter, appears less enthusiastic about providing refuge for the embattled Syrian leader. This reluctance underscores the complexities of international alliances surrounding the Syrian crisis.
The situation in Syria continues to escalate as rebel forces move closer to Damascus, heightening tensions and raising questions about the future of Assad's regime.
By Bruno Finel
Officials will discuss major steps to restore support for Syria from the World Bank and International Monetary Fund at spring meetings next week, though sanctions remain a major obstacle to rebuilding the country, a U.N. official said on Friday.
Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani told Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday that Syria's new leader was keen to build ties with Moscow.
As his enemies closed in on Damascus, Bashar al-Assad, who ruled over Syria with an iron fist for 24 years, used a private jet to spirit away cash, valuables and confidential documents mapping the corporate web behind his wealth.
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