President of the Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC), Hadi Al-Bahra, delivered a speech on the occasion of the 13th anniversary of the start of the Syrian revolution, during the celebratory event held by the Syrian Interim Government in the town of Al-Rai in the Aleppo countryside.
During his speech, Al-Bahra emphasized that the Syrian Revolution is poised for victory, as its core principles revolve around humanity, the pursuit of a decent life, and the establishment of justice, freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. He highlighted that the initial outcry of Syrians during the revolution marked a definitive turning point against the Assad regime. Al-Bahra paid tribute to the resilience and determination of the Syrian people in their quest to regain their rights and freedom, despite the severe humanitarian, living, and economic challenges prevalent in Syria.
Al-Bahra underscored that the Assad regime is the primary cause of the ongoing hardships faced by Syrians, both within Syria and in host countries. He condemned the regime’s retention of power and its use of barrel bombs and chemical weapons against civilians, resulting in one of the most significant humanitarian crises in recent history. Al-Bahra reiterated the Syrian people’s aspirations for a nation founded on justice, freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, lamenting the regime’s obstruction of meaningful political processes, leading to unprecedented crises in Syria and the wider region.
Reflecting on the 13th anniversary of the Syrian Revolution, Al-Bahra drew attention to the city of Suwayda, symbolizing Syrians’ universal yearning for freedom and democracy. He stressed the need for a political solution in Syria in line with UN Resolution 2254.
Al-Bahra reaffirmed the SOC’s commitment to representing the aspirations of the Syrian people, emphasizing its role in preserving national interests and honoring the sacrifices made during the revolution. He urged the international community and the United Nations to fulfill their obligations towards Syria and its people by working towards a genuine and credible political solution, as outlined in Security Council Resolutions 2118 and 2254. Al-Bahra said a political solution is key to the safe and dignified return of refugees and displaced persons to their homes, advocating for temporary, secure, and decent housing until these conditions are met.
Highlighting the pressing demand for the release of detainees and the revelation of the fate of forcibly disappeared persons, Al-Bahra emphasized the need for justice, safety, and freedom for all Syrians. He reiterated Syrians’ right to live in a homeland that respects their dignity, guarantees their rights, and provides opportunities for a prosperous future.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)
