The President of the Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC), Hadi Al-Bahra, emphasized the unwavering determination of the Syrian people amidst the manifold adversities they face. Al-Bahra stressed their resilience and steadfastness in reclaiming their rights and freedom, despite enduring significant hardships including tragic losses and ongoing economic crises. He reiterated SOC’s steadfast commitment to persist in the Syrian Revolution until victory is achieved.
These remarks were made during a speech delivered by Al-Bahra at a commemorative event organized by the Syrian Interim Government to mark the 13th anniversary of the revolution. The event took place in the town of Ras al-Ayn in the Hasakah countryside. Attendees included Abdurrahman Mustafa, Head of the Syrian Interim Government, government ministers, leaders of various Syrian Revolution institutions, coordinators, and military leaders.
Al-Bahra underscored the Syrian people’s enduring desire for a future where justice, freedom, democracy, and the rule of law prevail. He lamented the global community’s failure to decisively address the war crimes and humanitarian atrocities perpetrated against Syrians. Despite the world’s capacity to intervene and assist in toppling the oppressive regime, significant action has been lacking.
The president also criticized nations that have maintained a passive stance toward the Assad regime, attributing their inaction to broader global and regional crises. He condemned the approach of merely addressing the symptoms of the regime’s actions instead of actively seeking a sustainable solution to the conflict. Moreover, Al-Bahra warned against the expansionist agenda of the Iranian regime, particularly through sectarian means in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen.
Al-Bahra urged the international community to earnestly pursue a genuine political resolution that aligns with the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people. He emphasized the importance of upholding Security Council Resolutions 2118 and 2254, which outline the framework for a political transition in Syria. Additionally, Al-Bahra stressed the necessity of facilitating the safe return of refugees and internally displaced persons while ensuring dignified living conditions for them.
Furthermore, Al-Bahra highlighted the critical issue of detainees and forcibly disappeared persons, calling for their immediate release and the revelation of their fates. He underscored the urgent need to address this humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the severe suffering endured by those held in detention centers and prisons under the Assad regime’s control.
Expressing gratitude, Al-Bahra extended thanks to nations that have refused to normalize relations with the Assad regime. He commended countries that have generously hosted Syrian refugees and provided humanitarian assistance. Particularly, he praised the efforts of the Turkish people and government, who have welcomed the largest number of refugees and contributed substantially to humanitarian relief efforts.
In conclusion, Al-Bahra reaffirmed the Syrian people’s rightful aspirations to live in a homeland characterized by justice, security, and freedom. He stressed that the realization of this vision hinges on the collective efforts of Syrians and the unwavering support of the international community.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)
