Press release
Syrian Opposition Coalition
Department of Media and Communications
February 28, 2024
The Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC) strongly condemns the alarming escalation perpetrated by the Assad regime against demonstrators in Suwayda city. Today marks a tragic turn as the first demonstrator fell victim to the bullets of the Assad regime’s militia, which callously targeted a peaceful demonstration near the April 7 Hall in the heart of Suwayda city.
The SOC underscores that the insufficient international attention given to the Syrian crisis only serves to embolden the Assad regime, enabling it to perpetrate further crimes and atrocities against Syrian civilians across various regions. We caution against allowing the Assad regime to unleash its brutal crackdown on the Suwayda demonstrations, reminiscent of its ruthless suppression of protesters in other cities and towns since the onset of the uprising in 2011. It is imperative to shine a spotlight on the aspirations of our people in southern Syria through media channels and international platforms to amplify the voices of Syrians and their just demands.
The SOC commends the unwavering courage of the people of Suwayda, who persist in their quest for freedom, justice, and democracy despite facing numerous challenges, obstacles, and the imminent danger posed by the Assad regime. We express our unwavering support and solidarity for the peaceful anti-regime protest movement led by the people and notable figures of Suwayda, characterized by political astuteness and national unity aimed at facilitating political transition in Syria.
Realizing the aspirations of the Syrian people necessitates achieving a political transition through the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2254, thereby empowering Syrians to shape their destiny and forge a brighter future in a state founded upon the principles of freedom, justice, democracy, the rule of law, and human rights.
