Protests Erupt in Syria as Statues of Hafez al-Assad Toppled
In a significant display of dissent, residents of Jaramana, a town near Damascus, have toppled a statue of former Syrian President Hafez al-Assad. This act of defiance mirrors similar protests in the cities of Daraa and Hama, where demonstrators have also targeted symbols of the Assad regime. On December 7, 2024, crowds gathered around the statue, chanting slogans such as "Syria is ours, not the Assad family's," indicating a growing sentiment against the ruling family.
The protests come amid escalating tensions in Syria, as opposition factions have made substantial gains, extending their control over key provinces including Aleppo, Idlib, Hama, and parts of Homs and Daraa. Reports suggest that these factions are beginning to encircle the capital, Damascus, raising fears among the regime's supporters.
Assad Regime Faces Growing Challenges
In Daraya, another area in the Damascus countryside, images circulated on social media show residents tearing down pictures of President Bashar al-Assad following the withdrawal of regime forces. This has led to increased speculation and panic in the capital, with rumors circulating about Assad's potential departure from Damascus. However, the Syrian presidency has issued a statement refuting these claims, asserting that Assad remains in the capital fulfilling his duties. The last public appearance of President Assad was on December 1, 2024, when he met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
The recent developments reflect a significant shift in the power dynamics within Syria, as opposition forces continue to gain ground and public sentiment increasingly turns against the Assad family. The toppling of statues and the destruction of images symbolize a broader rejection of the regime's authority and a call for change in a country long plagued by civil war.