Bashar al-Assad, the former Syrian president, has released a statement claiming he did not intend to flee his country but was evacuated by Russia after rebels took over Damascus. According to reports, Assad went to the Alawite heartland in Latakia, where his family is from, and met with Russian officials at a base called Hmeimim.
Assad’s statement comes amid reports of widespread poverty and discontent among Syria’s Alawite minority, who claim he abandoned them and left them to struggle. The group says they are relieved to be rid of him and hope for Syria’s reunification.
Meanwhile, the newly formed rebel government faces significant challenges in establishing a functioning state. With limited manpower, they must quickly decide whether to bring other groups on board or work with former soldiers and Kurdish forces. The group has set up checkpoints along borders and is searching for individuals responsible for crimes committed under the Assad regime.
Justice is also a pressing concern, as administrators from the old regime have faced violent treatment. Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham has stated they want proper justice, not revenge. However, reports are emerging of female judges facing intimidation and some women complaining about problems in the new government.
Despite these challenges, the future remains uncertain for Syria’s rebels.
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/syrias-rebel-leaders-face-critical-decisions-as-they-chart-new-path-for-the-country