Press release
Syrian Opposition Coalition
Department of Media and Communications
April 18, 2021
The famous sit-in protest in the ‘Clock Square’ in central Homs which took place this day on 2011, when thousands gathered in what later became known as the ‘Freedom Square’, was supposed to send a clear message to the Assad regime that it must change its course vis-à-vis the demands of the Syrian people.
However, the Assad regime’s entrenched authoritarian mentality prevented that message from going through as the regime insisted on the choice of iron and fire to confront the youth who took part in the sit-in protest. Those youth organized and coordinated civil work in a way that reflected the true spirit, ambitions and ideals of the revolution.
At dawn on April 19, 2011, the Assad regime forces responded by raining a barrage of fire on protesters in the square. The regime nonetheless was unable to kill the spirit of freedom and revolution in their hearts.
Homs city took over the hearts of Syrians thanks to the immense sacrifices, heroism, and bravery its people showed in the face of the Assad regime and its terrorist militias, which won it the nickname ‘the capital of the Syrian Revolution.’
Ten years after this horrible crime, Syrians and the whole world know the perpetrator along with his proven track record of the most atrocious crimes. Although the criminal is still at large, he will not escape justice and accountability. Whoever took part in shedding the blood of the Syrian people will soon receive just punishment.
