In his first statement following the opposition's takeover of Syria, the former Syrian president, Bashar Al-Assad, clarified that his departure from the country was never planned, nor did he leave during the final hours of combat.

He remained in Damascus, fulfilling his duties until the early hours of Sunday, December 8, 2024.

'As terrorism expanded within Damascus, Al-Assad coordinated with Russian allies to relocate to Latakia to oversee military operations.

Upon reaching Hmeimim base, he found all frontlines abandoned and the last military positions lost, with escalating attacks on the Russian base itself,' the statement declared.

Al-Assad stressed that he never sought personal power but saw himself as leading a national project backed by people who believed in him.

He rejected any offers for personal escape, instead standing with his troops on the front lines, facing the enemy directly in the most intense and dangerous combat zones.

He maintained that during these events, neither resignation nor refuge was ever an option—only continued resistance against the terrorist assault.

He also addressed the international rumors regarding his fate, stating that amidst the terrorist expansion in Syria, false narratives were spread, further fueling the international process of designating the violence as a 'Syrian liberation revolution.' 'In such a critical historical moment for the nation, the truth must have its place.

There are important matters that need clarification through a brief statement, but due to the circumstances and the subsequent complete communication breakdown for security reasons, it was not possible to deliver it.

These key points do not replace a full account of everything that transpired, which will be shared when the opportunity arises,' Al-Assad concluded.