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Assad Escapes to Russia as Rebels Advance, Leaving Behind Luxury and Secrets

Dec 11, 2024, 02:00 PM

Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has fled to Russia, following a decision by Moscow that his regime was likely to lose to the advancing opposition forces led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Russian intelligence services organized Assad's escape, utilizing a Russian airbase in Syria to transport him out of the country. The plane's tracking system was disabled to prevent interception. Assad's departure was influenced by his refusal to step down and his order to dissolve the Syrian Army, according to a non-governmental organization. His escape has sparked questions about his final actions, including allegations that he provided Israel with a list of military targets in exchange for safe passage. Assad's brother, Major General Maher al-Assad, left behind a mansion in Damascus, revealing the luxurious life the Assad family led, while the Alawite minority, to which the Assad family belongs, has been a significant base of support.