Outgoing US President Joe Biden spoke about the fall of Bashar Assad’s government in Syria, which has hurt many people for over fifty years. He described this event as an important chance for the people of Syria. Biden shared his thoughts at the White House after rebel groups took control of Syria, ending a long and violent civil war.
“After thirteen years of fighting and more than fifty years of strict rule by Assad and his father, the rebel forces have pushed Assad to resign and leave the country. We do not know his exact location right now, but there are rumors he is in Moscow. Finally, the Assad regime has ended,” Biden said.
“This regime has harmed, tortured, and killed hundreds of thousands of innocent Syrians. The end of this regime is a big step towards justice. It’s a historic moment for the suffering people of Syria to create a better future for their beloved country,” he added.
Biden also talked about the risks and uncertainties that come with this change, noting that recent support for Assad from groups like Hezbollah, Iran, and Russia has weakened. He views this situation as a chance for Syrian people to take the lead.
The Syrian opposition that has removed Assad is led by a group called Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which the US considers a terrorist group linked to al-Qaida. However, this group has stated that it has cut ties with al-Qaida.
Looking to the future, Biden mentioned a few important actions:
1. Support for Neighbors: The US will help countries near Syria, such as Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, and Israel, if any dangers arise during this transition. He plans to talk with regional leaders soon and is sending senior officials to assist.
2. Maintain Stability in Eastern Syria: The US will protect its personnel in Syria and continue its fight against ISIS. Biden emphasized they will make sure ISIS doesn’t gain strength during this time. “Today, US forces conducted airstrikes targeting ISIS hideouts,” he noted.
3. Engagement for a New Syria: The US will work with all Syrian groups to create a new, independent government through a process led by the United Nations. This new government will be formed by the people of Syria, not imposed from outside.
US Secretary of State Tony Blinken stated that they will keep a close eye on what happens next and work with international partners to hold the Assad regime accountable for their actions, including the use of chemical weapons against civilians.
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