The President of the Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC), Hadi al-Bahra, provided a briefing to the SOC General Assembly at the start of its meetings on Thursday in Tal Abyad, Raqqa. He highlighted the latest regional developments, their impact on Syria, and the vital role of the Syrian Interim Government (SIG) and the Syrian National Army in preparing for potential scenarios.
Al-Bahra strongly condemned the recent military escalation by the Assad regime and Russia targeting civilian areas, resulting in the deaths of dozens, including children and women. He urged the international community to take decisive action and hold war criminals accountable through the International Criminal Court or national laws that allow such prosecution.
He highlighted that this meeting comes amid a critical phase not just for Syria but for the entire region, citing Iranian influence over Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, and Syria—an influence driven by both public and covert agreements.
Al-Bahra recalled the peaceful beginnings of the Syrian Revolution, which sought reform and an end to unjust policies, only to be met with brutal repression. The regime adopted the notorious slogan, “Assad or we burn the country,” leading to widespread destruction, millions of casualties, and mass displacement.
He criticized the regime for sacrificing Syria’s sovereignty by inviting sectarian militias and forming alliances that allowed Iranian forces and Hezbollah to operate within Syria. Al-Bahra stressed that Iran’s involvement aims to perpetuate conflict and destabilize the region, distracting the international community from Iran’s internal issues and nuclear ambitions.
The SOC president noted that the Israel occupation has exploited this turmoil to launch attacks on Gaza, Lebanon, and parts of Syria. He reaffirmed Syria’s commitment to its sovereignty, unity, and independence, rejecting any separatist or divisive projects.
Al-Bahra condemned the regime for compromising Syrian sovereignty by allowing Israeli incursions beyond ceasefire lines, and he challenged the regime’s claim to be resisting foreign aggression. He also denounced attacks on civilians in Lebanon, Syria, or elsewhere, calling for respect for the sovereignty of all nations and non-interference in their internal affairs.
He urged the international community to pursue sustainable solutions to the region’s crises, focusing on the root causes—namely, Iranian influence and dictatorial regimes that wage war against their people and dominate neighboring countries, such as Lebanon.
Al-Bahra warned of the potential risks posed by the presence of two major military powers—Russia and the United States—on Syrian soil, where any miscalculation could lead to unforeseen consequences.
He emphasized the enormous responsibilities placed on the Syrian Interim Government and the Syrian National Army, particularly in defending the Syrian people. He condemned infighting between the groups of the Syrian National Army, deeming them unacceptable and urging those involved to cease hostilities immediately. Al-Bahra called for dialogue under the Ministry of Defense to resolve disputes, prevent further bloodshed, and strengthen the army’s unity, warning that infighting only serves the common enemy.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)
